AAPI Voices: Discontent with Trump's Immigration Policies on the Rise

Tue Oct 21 2025 22:30:24 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A recent poll reveals that a significant majority of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander adults disapprove of President Trump's immigration policies, with many believing he has gone too far in enforcement actions.

AAPI adults have expressed overwhelming disapproval of President Trump's immigration enforcement strategies, according to a new poll. With numbers rising from 58% to 70% disapproval over recent months, many feel that the administration's tactics have overstepped personal rights and freedoms. Foreign-born AAPI individuals are particularly polarized concerning immigration enforcement, yet there remains a consensus against harsh tactics such as workplace raids and the military's involvement.

Recent findings from an AAPI Data/AP-NORC poll reveal a growing dissatisfaction among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AAPI) adults with President Trump's handling of immigration policy. The survey indicates that around 70% of AAPI adults nationwide disapprove of the administration's approach, a significant increase from 58% just a few months prior.

The poll highlights that many respondents believe the current administration has overstepped in its enforcement actions against immigrants residing in the United States illegally. This sentiment is sharply reflected in the opposition to tactics such as deploying the military and National Guard to aid in arrests or deportations. A majority of AAPI adults, including those born outside the United States, express concern that such strategies could lead to severe injustices.

Joie Meyer, a 25-year-old resident of Miami who was adopted from China, reflects on the personal implications of these policies, stating that the prospect of losing citizenship due to a technicality is “heartbreaking.” The fear of being forcibly removed from one’s home resonates strongly with many community members, leading to a sense of urgency for fair treatment of immigrants.

Furthermore, the poll shows that approximately two-thirds of AAPI adults feel that Trump has exceeded acceptable limits with his immigration enforcement, contrasting with responses from Black and Hispanic communities. In addition, many AAPI adults perceive a lack of compassion in the administration's efforts, expressing that they view these actions as purely statistical and quotas-driven, devoid of empathy.

Notably, a divide exists between American-born and foreign-born AAPI adults regarding support for deportation policies. While foreign-born individuals tend to be more conservative, they also acknowledge a need for more balanced immigration policies. Despite some support for strict measures against all undocumented immigrants, the overall consensus is against extreme enforcement tactics that disregard humane considerations.

As discussions surrounding immigration continue to permeate local media, many AAPI respondents are increasingly vocal about their objections to the government’s approach. This ongoing discourse illustrates the need for a reevaluation of policies that prioritize enforcement over compassion and understanding.