Higgins has recently faced criticism for promoting false claims about Haitians eating pets and labeling them as “thugs” according to reports. The report noted that the Haitian Bridge Alliance, a nonprofit advocating for Haitians, is pursuing criminal charges against former President Donald Trump and his running mate, JD Vance.
On his official X account, Higgins wrote, “Lol. These Haitians are wild. Eating pets, vudu, nastiest country in the western hemisphere, cults, slapstick gangsters… but damned if they don’t feel all sophisticated now, filing charges against our President and VP. All these thugs better get their mind right and their asses out of our country before January 20th.”
Later, when questioned by CNN, Higgins defended his statement, saying, “It’s all true. I can put up another controversial post tomorrow if you want me to. I mean, we do have freedom of speech. I’ll say what I want.”
The Congressional Black Caucus condemned Higgins’ remarks and introduced a resolution to censure him, emphasizing that his derogatory comments about Haitians contradict America’s core principle of being a welcoming nation of immigrants. The caucus urged Congress to stand against hate in all its forms.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, during a press conference, mentioned that Higgins was approached by fellow members of Congress who found the post offensive, prompting him to take it down. Johnson described Higgins as a principled individual who regretted his words after reflecting on them.
Johnson expressed confidence in Higgins’ regret and emphasized the importance of redemption.
