Immigration is a core issue for voters. Some of the 2024 campaign’s most charged political vitriol has swirled around its effects. Over the past generation, immigrants from Southeast Asia, East Africa and now predominantly Central America transformed the small town of Worthington, Minnesota. Students of color constitute more than 80% of those enrolled in K-12, Spanish is most children’s first language, and soccer is far more popular than football. Most lifelong residents in this politically red area are proud of Worthington’s cosmopolitan flair and thriving economy. But rapid change comes with significant challenges and costs brought by language and cultural barriers. Can very separate groups turn into one functioning community?
