
Logansport, Indiana, is grappling with an overwhelming increase in its population, driven by the arrival of over 11,000 Haitian migrants since 2020. This surge has caused a 30% jump in the population of Cass County, leading to overcrowded schools and frustration among local families. Many residents are holding the Biden-Harris administration accountable for their immigration policies, which they say are failing to protect communities.
Local photographer Candice Espinoza voiced her concerns, telling The New York Post, “Our community cannot withstand this many people being here.” She added that the rapid influx has led to significant challenges in the public school system. Nancy Baker, another resident, was blunt in her criticism of the administration, stating, “If Kamala Harris came to my home, I would tell her to get off my property.”
The increase in the Haitian student population has been dramatic, rising from 14 to 207 in a single year. Baker’s daughter, Cheyanne, felt neglected by the school system and ultimately dropped out because teachers were too focused on helping non-English-speaking students. “You can’t just focus all your resources on one group of children while the rest fall behind,” Baker said.
Cheyanne now attends an online school, but many parents are concerned that the overcrowded public schools are failing their children. Espinoza, whose children are also struggling, said, “Their reading and comprehension will decline because teachers have to lower expectations.”
Logansport Mayor Chris Martin acknowledged the difficulties, but attributed some of the problems to cultural differences, while residents point to a lack of resources. Espinoza, like many in the community, plans to vote for Donald Trump, hoping that his policies will improve the situation. “I know things will get better when Trump becomes president,” she said.