Fact-Checking Trump’s Misleading Claims at Butler Rally
During a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, former President Donald Trump made several claims regarding immigration, the economy, and Hurricane Helene that were fact-checked for accuracy. Trump stated that illegal immigration was at its lowest when he left office, citing a chart with misleading data. In reality, his presidency ended in January 2021, and the low numbers he referenced in April 2020 were influenced by pandemic-related lockdowns.
Trump also misrepresented the federal response to Hurricane Helene, stating that victims would receive only $750 in aid. This amount is from FEMA’s Serious Needs Assistance program, which covers immediate needs and is not the total aid provided. As of October 4, FEMA had disbursed over $45 million for recovery efforts.
Additionally, Trump claimed that 13,099 murderers were allowed into the U.S. during the Biden administration, a misleading statistic that does not specify when these individuals entered the country. The figure refers to noncitizens with homicide convictions over a 40-year span and does not imply a direct correlation to current immigration policies.
On economic claims, Trump asserted that his administration achieved the greatest economy in history, but data shows that while unemployment dropped, GDP growth was lower than in previous administrations. Other economic indicators such as wages and business investment also contradict his assertion.
Lastly, Trump inaccurately claimed that Vice President Kamala Harris was tasked with managing border security. Her role is focused on addressing the root causes of migration rather than direct control over border enforcement, which falls under the Department of Homeland Security.