Their public statements have ranged from using the situation to critique Biden’s immigration policy to nods at those who believe Haitians are eating pets and park geese.

Although city officials say thousands of Haitian migrants in Springfield, Ohio, are “legal,” the reality of their legal status is nuanced.

Last week’s presidential debate thrust Springfield, Ohio, into the national spotlight, prompting people to wonder how a Haitian community has taken root there — and why. Here’s a look at some key questions,