— Insights from the 2025 AAPI Data / AP-NORC Survey
In early October, AAPI Data and the Associated Press–NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, two of the most respected institutions studying Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) public opinion, released a new report.
Its central finding was clear and striking:
“AAPI adults give President Trump lower ratings than the general public across key issues.”
This isn’t just another political poll — it’s a mirror reflecting how AAPI communities are feeling amid tighter immigration policies, global tension, and rising living costs. It captures a subtle but significant shift in how Asian Americans see power, fairness, and belonging in today’s United States.
Immigration and Enforcement: Rejecting “Too Much Toughness”
The survey found that 71% of AAPI respondents disapprove of the Trump administration’s handling of immigration, a figure that has risen notably since six months ago. Even more telling, two-thirds (67%) said deportation efforts have gone too far. Only a small minority supported large-scale raids in immigrant neighborhoods, masked enforcement, or the use of the National Guard in deportations.
Behind those numbers lies history. From the 19th-century Chinese Exclusion Act to the wave of anti-Asian hate during the pandemic, Asian Americans have a long collective memory of “over-policing.” So when the government invokes “safety” or “law and order,” many AAPI families instinctively ask: Who will be targeted next — could it be us again?
Economic Anxiety and Public Responsibility: A Pragmatic Middle Path
What makes the AAPI perspective unique is its pragmatic duality. This community is neither “radical left” nor “staunchly right.”
On one hand, 57% view capitalism positively. On the other, large majorities want government to step in where the market fails: 85% support a cap on prescription drug prices; 75% believe government should ensure affordable housing; 71% favor expanding universal childcare.
These views show that AAPI Americans believe in markets — but not blind markets. They want a system that is competitive yet compassionate, where public policy cushions ordinary families when rent, healthcare, and student debt become unbearable.
In short, they embody America’s “moderate progressives”: people who value hard work and merit, but also believe fairness must be protected by design, not left to chance.
Global Outlook: A Humanitarian Compass
On the Israel–Palestine conflict, AAPI respondents diverge sharply from the national average. Only 13% said they sympathize more with Israel, while 39% sympathize more with Palestinians. A striking 66% believe Israel’s actions in Gaza have been “excessive” — compared with 49% among the general U.S. public.
This stance reflects not ideology, but empathy. Many younger AAPIs have grown up in multicultural environments where human rights, social justice, and anti-war movements are part of daily discourse. They don’t view global conflicts solely through a lens of “national interest.” Instead, they respond to human suffering, humanitarian aid, and calls for ceasefire — believing that “the restraint of the powerful” matters more than “the victory of the powerful.”
Generational and Identity Differences: A Freer Second Generation
The report also highlights diversity within the AAPI community itself: U.S.-born younger AAPIs tend to be more liberal, oppose deportations, and favor social welfare. First-generation immigrants often place more weight on safety and economic stability, viewing a “strong government” with mixed feelings. Yet across generations, one sentiment remains consistent: AAPI communities do not want fear to be mistaken for safety.
Can This Report Be Trusted?
Yes — it is among the most methodologically sound AAPI polls to date. Jointly produced by AP-NORC (a collaboration between the Associated Press and the University of Chicago, widely recognized for its survey rigor) and AAPI Data, the report meets the highest standards of transparency.
The study covers all 50 states and Washington, D.C., with 1,027 respondents interviewed in English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, and Vietnamese. It used multi-stage probability sampling, with a margin of error of ±5%. Though the response rate (around 4%) is typical for online panels, the dataset is statistically representative and robust enough for public and policy analysis. In short, it is one of the most credible snapshots of Asian American opinion available today.
Conclusion: The “Third Temperature” in American Politics
Amid the noise of polarization, the AAPI voice stands out — calm but firm, rational yet humane. They represent a “third temperature” in American politics: moderate, evidence-based, and quietly transformative.
They oppose excessive enforcement not because they reject order, support government involvement not because they distrust enterprise, and call for ceasefire not because they are naïve — but because they know, from history, that when fear takes over, minorities are often the first to be scapegoated.
In a time when loud extremes dominate headlines, it may be these thoughtful, balanced voices that keep American democracy from freezing over.
By Nevada Chinese Perspective
Endnote
Source: AAPI Data & AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research —
“Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Attitudes: September–October 2025 Survey”
Discover more from 华人语界｜Chinese Voices
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
