Gwinnett County, one of the most ethnically diverse areas in the U.S., is shaping up as a key battleground in upcoming elections, with its growing immigrant and newcomer communities playing an increasingly influential role. A Korean-born business owner who has operated Italian coffee shops in the area for over two decades reflects the county’s evolving demographic landscape, where Korean Americans have established a strong economic presence through businesses like car dealerships, banks, and restaurants. The rising political weight of this community—alongside other immigrant groups—could determine critical outcomes in congressional races. As diversity reshapes local culture and commerce, Gwinnett’s vote may hold outsized sway in national politics.
Gwinnett county is home to many immigrants and other newcomers, and how it votes could be decisive for CongressJohanna Park might just be an ambassador for Gwinnett county, Georgia, one of the 10 most ethnically diverse counties in the United States.Park owns Cafe Amico at Suwanee Town Center, one of her three Italian coffee shops in the area just north of Atlanta. She was born in Korea and lived much of her life in Argentina and Peru. She’s been in Gwinnett for more than 20 years, part of an early wave of Korean immigration that’s built Korean American car dealerships, banks, insurance agencies, supermarkets and restaurants like her own. It’s also a population that’s increasing in influence and not just numbers. Continue reading...
