Ohio Prepares for Potential ICE Surge in Springfield After Haitian TPS Expires

Governor DeWine says state officials are coordinating with local authorities to plan for possible immigration enforcement activity.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 1:07pm

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said the state is preparing for a potential surge in immigration enforcement activity in Springfield when thousands of Haitians in the area lose their temporary protected status on February 3rd. DeWine expressed concerns about the impact on the local economy and community, as well as the need to protect the rights of protesters if ICE operations do take place.

Why it matters

The end of temporary protected status for Haitians could have significant consequences for the Springfield community, which is home to an estimated 15,000 Haitians, about a quarter of the city's population. DeWine is worried about the economic impact and potential for disruption to families if ICE conducts large-scale enforcement actions.

The details

Governor DeWine said he doesn't know for sure whether Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will send officers to Springfield after temporary protected status (TPS) expires for over 500,000 Haitians nationwide on February 3rd. However, he has spoken with local police and school officials to plan for the possibility. DeWine is concerned that child welfare services could become overwhelmed if parents are detained by ICE. He also defended the Haitian community, stating that it would be a 'mistake' to force them to leave the country when many are working and supporting the local economy.

  • On February 3, more than 500,000 Haitians nationwide are expected to lose temporary protected status.
  • Springfield is home to an estimated 15,000 Haitians, about one-fourth of its population, and another 30,000 live in central Ohio.

The players

Mike DeWine

The Governor of Ohio who is preparing the state for a potential surge in immigration enforcement activity in Springfield.

Alex Pretti

A 37-year-old nurse who was shot and killed by a Border Patrol agent amid protests over ICE's presence in Minneapolis.

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What they’re saying

“If ICE does in fact come in, comes in with a big operation, obviously we have to work this thing through and make sure people don't get hurt.”

— Mike DeWine, Governor of Ohio

“I don't think it's in our interest in this country for all the Haitians who are working, who are sometimes working two jobs, supporting their family, supporting the economy, I think it's a mistake to tell these individuals you can no longer work and have to leave the country.”

— Mike DeWine, Governor of Ohio

What’s next

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The takeaway

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