By Ethan Faverino |
Jay Feely, a Republican candidate for Arizona’s 1st Congressional District, is drawing scrutiny following recent comments defending Haitian immigrants amid ongoing national debates over immigration policy.
Feely, who has received an endorsement from President Donald Trump despite past criticism of Trump and reported connections to the Clinton family, faced backlash after accusing his primary opponent, former Arizona State Representative Joseph Chaplik, of racism.
The exchange stems from Chaplik’s criticism of Feely’s support for bringing large numbers of Haitian refugees into the United States.
In response to Chaplik’s concerns about mass Haitian immigration, Feely cited his personal experience helping two Haitian men he described as “family,” saying they came to the United States legally and pursued education and employment.
Chaplik rejected the accusations, saying his remarks were aimed at Feely’s broader immigration policy positions rather than the individuals themselves. He accused Feely of “playing the race card” and shared video clips he said showed Feely supporting amnesty measures and assistance for NGOs facilitating Haitian migration. Chaplik also pointed to Feely’s lack of response when asked about Temporary Protected Status extensions for Haitians.
The controversy escalated when Feely appeared on Arizona’s 12 News. During the interview, Feely addressed President Trump’s 2024 campaign remarks regarding reports of Haitian immigrants in Ohio eating pets. Feely recounted conversations with the two Haitian men he helped bring into the U.S., noting cultural practices in Haiti, “that when somebody has no food at all, they’re going to find whatever it is, whether it’s a dog, a cat.”
“I don’t want to be derogatory about people,” added Feely. “I think that’s where President Trump and I differ, is that I think you can articulate your values and your beliefs without being derogatory about others.”
When asked directly about reports of pets being eaten in Ohio, Feely responded, “I’m saying that the Haitian men that we brought here, and we talked about it, they said, ‘Yeah, I could see that happening.’ And if somebody who did that in Haiti comes here and sees a swan and says, “Oh, that might make a good meal!”
Chaplik responded sharply to the interview in a comment to The Gateway Pundit, criticizing Feely for disregarding constituents, insulting the President, and attacking candidates with a conservative legislative record. “That’s why the voters of our Congressional District, CD1, don’t trust him, and that’s why we are up 20 points.”
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
