Survey Reveals AAPI Discontent with Trump's Immigration Policies

Wed Oct 15 2025 17:14:47 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A recent AAPI Data/AP-NORC poll indicates a growing disapproval among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander adults regarding President Trump's handling of immigration enforcement, highlighting significant opposition to current policies and practices.

The AAPI Data/AP-NORC survey reports that nearly 70% of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander adults disapprove of President Trump's immigration policies, a noticeable rise from March figures. Many believe that Trump's approach, particularly increased deportations, has gone too far. While some foreign-born AAPI adults support strict immigration enforcement, overall, the community expresses significant concern over aggressive tactics like workplace raids and military involvement in immigration enforcement.

Recent findings from an AAPI Data/AP-NORC poll reveal substantial dissatisfaction among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AAPI) adults regarding President Trump's immigration policies. Approximately 70% of AAPI respondents expressed disapproval of Trump's approach, marking an increase from March’s 58%. The survey indicates a significant sentiment that has developed over months of aggressive immigration enforcement measures implemented by the Trump administration.

A large majority of AAPI respondents believe that Trump has overstepped on issues of deportation, reflecting a growing concern over specific tactics such as involving military or National Guard in enforcement actions. This recent crackdown has escalated recently, particularly in areas like Chicago where immigration arrests have markedly increased.

The sentiments resonate strongly within a diverse demographic that largely includes individuals born outside the United States. Joie Meyer, a Chinese adoptee, expressed distress about the implications of Trump's policies on personal safety and citizenship, stating it’s heartbreaking to consider the risk of losing her rights due to technicalities in immigration law.

Moreover, the survey suggests that while there is a faction within the foreign-born AAPI population that might support stricter immigration enforcement, a noticeable portion categorically opposes tactics perceived as harsh or punitive. More than half of the surveyed AAPI adults voiced opposition to workplace raids and the use of military personnel for immigration enforcement.

The concerns are echoed by community members who find the current tactics alarming, particularly those that trigger memories of historical injustices. The poll illustrates a divided viewpoint among AAPI adults regarding immigration enforcement—with American-born AAPI adults leaning more toward disapproval of harsh policies, while foreign-born counterparts exhibit more support for some enforcement measures.

As the conversation on immigration remains heated, this data reflects the complexity within AAPI perspectives and the evolving discontent with presidential policies, signifying a critical area for future political engagement and policy reform.