Caribbean Matters: Lawmakers slam DeSantis' threats to Haitian refugees

It’s déjà vu: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, no longer in the spotlight for his failed Republican presidential campaign, has threatened a repeat of 2022’s “send refugees to Martha’s Vineyard” scam, only this time Haitian refugees are his target.

This won’t win DeSantis any points from the Haitian American community, particularly in Florida, which is home to the largest Haitian American population in the U.S. DeSantis’ little plot has also provoked a response from the House Haiti Caucus. Founded on Haitian Flag Day 2021, its current members are Democratic Reps. Yvette Clarke of New York, Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick of Florida, Sydney Kamlager of California, and Seth Magaziner of Rhode Island, as well as Republican Rep. Mike Lawler of New York.. 

This provocation by Gov. “DeKlantis” (as many on social media call him) is taking place at a time when Haitian Americans are focused on worsening conditions in Haiti, and worried about family and friends caught up in the chaos there.

“Caribbean Matters” is a weekly series from Daily Kos. If you are unfamiliar with the region, check out Caribbean Matters: Getting to know the countries of the Caribbean.