Springfield, Ohio, a town of just 56,000 people, is facing unprecedented challenges due to a surge of illegal immigrants — primarily from Haiti — under the Biden-Harris administration. Officials estimate that between 4,000 and 7,000 Haitians have settled in the town, leading to frustration and concern among local residents.

At a City Commission meeting last year, Springfield community members warned of the negative impact that this influx would bring, particularly regarding crime. These concerns have become a reality, with one resident recently telling the mayor that Haitian immigrants have been squatting on her lawn and harassing her and her husband. “I can’t take it anymore,” she said, expressing the growing exasperation felt by many locals.

Much of this population increase can be attributed to the Biden-Harris administration’s immigration policies, including granting Temporary Protected Status to thousands of Haitians. Springfield’s population has grown by 33% since Biden took office — a sharp contrast to the town’s previous population decline of 1.7% over the past decade.

This influx of immigrants has also led to a spike in housing prices, forcing long-time residents to compete with newcomers for affordable homes. Locals have started referring to Springfield as a “sanctuary city,” blaming local leaders for allowing the surge of illegal immigrants into their community.

With tensions rising, Springfield residents continue to call for action as their town struggles to handle the challenges brought on by the sudden population increase.