In brief
The AAPI population's discontent with President Trump's handling of immigration is evident in recent polling data. Approximately 70% disapprove of his measures, a significant increase from earlier surveys. This sentiment is echoed across various demographics within the AAPI community, with many feeling that Trump's tactics, involving military deployment and workplace raids, lack compassion. Moreover, there is a noticeable divide between foreign-born and American-born AAPI adults regarding their perspectives on immigration and enforcement policies.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Following months of rigorous immigration enforcement from the Trump administration, a new poll indicates that Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AAPI) adults largely disapprove of President Trump's immigration strategies. Approximately 70% of AAPI adults surveyed disapprove of Trump's actions, rising from 58% in March.
The study by AAPI Data and the Associated Press-NORC Center reveals that a significant majority believe Trump has exceeded appropriate limits on deportation of undocumented immigrants. Furthermore, many oppose the administration's tactics, such as utilizing the military and National Guard for deportations.
The discontent among AAPI adults, a diverse group predominantly composed of immigrants, is particularly striking. Even those in the conservative-leaning foreign-born demographic express dissatisfaction. Joie Meyer, an adoptee from China, articulated concerns about losing her citizenship due to technicalities in immigration laws, calling Trump's methods "punitive."
Trump's Overreach on Immigration Enforcement
The poll further indicates that around two-thirds of AAPI respondents think Trump has 'gone too far' on immigration enforcement, outpacing disapproval rates among Black and Hispanic adults. Peter Lee, a Tacoma resident, highlighted the urgency of the immigration crisis in local news, criticizing Trump's arbitrary deportation policies as lacking compassion and formulated from emotion rather than informed strategy.
Division within AAPI Views on Trump
While many foreign-born AAPI adults generally show support for certain deportation policies, views diverge significantly between immigrant and American-born individuals. Over half of foreign-born respondents advocate for deportations of undocumented immigrants charged with misdemeanors, foreshadowing a potential split in priorities related to immigration within the AAPI community. Tyrone Tai, a Florida resident of Jamaican heritage, expressed views supportive of stricter immigration laws but acknowledged the complexities involved.
Opposition to Harsh Tactics
The survey disclosed noteworthy opposition among AAPI adults towards workplace raids and military intervention in immigration enforcement. The alarming presence of ICE agents conducting activities in public domains has caused unease, as shared by Michael Ida from Honolulu, prompting reflections on historical injustices against Asians in America.
The poll, conducted between September 2-9, 2025, surveyed 1,027 AAPI adults and reports a margin of error of ±5%.
