Comedy star Dave Chappelle has directly addressed President Donald Trump, urging him to stop targeting the Haitian community in Springfield, Ohio. "Mr. Trump, please leave those Haitians in Springfield alone. We love them," Chappelle said on CNN.
Chappelle's remarks came during CNN's "Independence Eve" broadcast when host Andy Cohen asked him why he is "proud to be an American" and "how do you view our country today." Chappelle described the question as "loaded," joking that it explained why Trump often expresses frustration with the media. He acknowledged that he does not agree with all actions of the U.S. government but stated his belief in the American people.
"If I'm overseas or around the world, anytime I see an American over there, we just give each other the 'Fight Club' look, because we live in a madness that only we really understand what it's all about," Chappelle said. He added, "And I have faith in my countrymen, no matter how crazy all of this will make it feel, that the sun will rise and that I feel like I'm part of a very incredible community. So God bless my countrymen and let us make this country absolutely great."
Trump has made the Haitian community a focal point of his 2024 election rhetoric, making false claims about them and vowing to deport them. A recent Supreme Court ruling permits the administration to end temporary protected status for migrants from Haiti and Syria, potentially opening the door for their deportation.
Chappelle, who resides near Springfield, made his comments to CNN on Friday. His statements were met with applause from the live audience and acknowledgments from the broadcast hosts.