AAPI Community Discontent: Views on Trump's Immigration Policies

Mon Mar 23 2026 06:36:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A recent poll highlights discontent among Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders regarding President Trump's immigration policies, revealing a majority feel harmed by his actions.

According to a new AAPI Data/AP-NORC poll, a significant portion of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) believe that President Trump's actions during his second term have negatively impacted immigration and border security. This sentiment is particularly noted in the wake of his administration's strict enforcement measures and recent high-profile incidents involving ICE. As the AAPI community continues to voice concerns over these policies, a growing call for a more humane and effective immigration system emerges, highlighting the complexities and divisions within perspectives on immigration enforcement.

In a recent AAPI Data/AP-NORC poll, a staggering 60% of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) expressed discontent regarding President Trump's approach to immigration and border security in his second term. This contrasts with a previous survey showing roughly 40% of the general American population shared similar sentiments towards immigration enforcement.

Among the responses, two-thirds of AAPI adults conveyed that Trump's tactics around deportations have crossed a line, reflecting broader concerns within the community regarding the administration's immigration policies. These findings come amidst a backdrop of harsh immigration crackdowns, such as the recent suspension of immigrant visa processing for citizens from 75 countries and a surge in detentions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Comments from community members reveal a deep dissatisfaction with the perceived hostility of current measures. Jeff Ugai, who resides in Kauai, Hawaii, expressed that Trump's policies seem focused more on cruelty than establishing a fair immigration system. Many in the AAPI demographic advocate for reforms that consider the lived experiences of immigrants rather than punitive actions.

The data also indicates that AAPI perspectives on immigration priorities are evolving, with increasing numbers advocating for reduced priority on deportations. There are also stark differences in opinions about the role of illegal immigrants in U.S. crime and welfare systems, revealing a community grappling with its beliefs and the implications of immigration policy.

As calls grow for policies rooted in compassion and understanding, this survey underscores the importance of amplifying AAPI voices in discussions around immigration, shedding light on perspectives often overshadowed in national dialogues.