As the nation gears up for the critical November 5 election, a pivotal demographic is emerging that could redefine the electoral landscape: Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPIs). With more than 15 million AANHPIs eligible to vote this year, including a significant number of first-time voters, their collective influence is poised to sway outcomes in key swing states.

On September 6, 2024, @Ethnic Media Services convened a crucial briefing titled “All Eyes on AAPI Voters in Swing States,” focusing on the significant impact of AAPI voters in the upcoming elections. As swing states play a pivotal role in determining electoral outcomes, this event brought together experts, community leaders, and media representatives to explore the unique challenges and opportunities faced by AAPI voters. The discussion highlighted the importance of understanding this diverse electorate, examining their voting trends, and addressing key issues that resonate within these communities.

A Growing Electorate

Recent data indicates that AANHPIs are the fastest-growing voter electorate in the United States. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, their population has increased by 81% over the last two decades, with substantial growth in states like California, Texas, Nevada, and Georgia—regions that are crucial to both major political parties.

For instance, as Shekar Narasimhan, Chairman and Founder of the AAPI Victory Found, mentioned that “we are the reason for victory (…) In seven states that will basically determine the Presidency of the United States, where the electoral votes matter the most, we have approximately 1.75 million eligible AANHPI Voters. The total victory margin in 2020 in the presidential states was (only) 385,000”.

This demographic boom is not just about numbers; it reflects a diverse tapestry of cultures, languages, and political perspectives. The AANHPI community includes individuals from various countries and backgrounds, each bringing unique experiences that shape their political views. From Korean Americans to Filipino voters, the interests of AANHPIs are as varied as their backgrounds.

First-Time Voters

One of the most exciting aspects of the upcoming election is the influx of first-time AANHPI voters. Many of these individuals, driven by issues like immigration, education, and healthcare, are stepping into the voting booth for the first time. This surge is not merely a result of population growth; it is fueled by a heightened sense of civic engagement and community mobilization.

Organizations like the Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund (AALDEF) and the National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF) have launched targeted initiatives to educate and encourage AANHPI voters. These groups emphasize the importance of participating in democracy, addressing language barriers, and combating misinformation that often plagues minority communities.

To remark the importance of AAPI first-time voters in this next election, the co-Founder and Executive Director of Asian Pacific Islander American Vote (APIA Vote), Christine Chen, pointed that “back in 2020, Biden won Georgia, and the margin victory was less than 12,000 votes. The number of AAPIS who voted in Georgia at that time was over 142,000, knowing that 26% were first-time voters. If you do math, that’s about 39,000 voters. Three times the margin of victory, so these are concrete ways and numbers that we’re seeing where we actually are making a difference”

The Power of Swing States

Swing states, known for their unpredictable outcomes, will be the battlegrounds where AANHPI voters can exert significant influence. States like Arizona, Michigan, and Pennsylvania have seen considerable AANHPI population growth, and these voters are increasingly recognizing their power.

Dr. Tung Nguyen, President of PIVOT, Chair of the PIVOT Board, and a founder of PIVOT, claimed that he “believed that Asian Americans and AANHPIs are the margin of victory in the Swing States but in order to win their votes, we need to reach them where they are, whether it is in person or online, in the languages they speak, and by reaching them with correct information about issues that they care about. The Vietnamese American communities matter and our votes matter”.

In Arizona, for instance, AANHPIs make up about 4% of the electorate, but they are concentrated in areas like Maricopa County, where elections have been decided by razor-thin margins. With community organizations mobilizing efforts to turn out the vote, this demographic could be the difference between victory and defeat for candidates in close races.

Key Issues for AANHPI Voters

Understanding what drives AANHPI voters is crucial for candidates hoping to capture their support. Key issues include various topics.

Immigration Reform: Many AANHPIs have personal or familial experiences with immigration challenges. Policies that address pathways to citizenship, family reunification, and protections for undocumented individuals resonate deeply within the community.

Healthcare Access: With a significant number of AANHPIs working in essential sectors, healthcare access is a priority. Candidates who advocate for affordable healthcare solutions and address health disparities will likely find favor among these voters.

Education: Education remains a cornerstone for many AANHPI families. Candidates who champion equitable education funding and initiatives to combat discrimination in schools may gain traction among this electorate.

Social Justice: The rise in anti-Asian sentiment during the COVID-19 pandemic has galvanized many in the AANHPI community. Voters are increasingly looking for candidates who prioritize social justice and policies that combat racism and discrimination.

Despite their growing numbers and potential impact, AANHPI voters face several challenges. One significant hurdle is the lack of political representation. While there has been progress, AANHPIs remain underrepresented in local, state, and federal offices. This lack of representation can lead to a disconnect between the political landscape and the community’s needs.

Additionally, language barriers pose a challenge. Many AANHPI voters may not have access to information in their native languages, which can hinder their ability to engage fully in the electoral process. Organizations are working to address this by providing multilingual resources and voter education materials.

Mobilization Efforts

As election day approaches, grassroots mobilization efforts are intensifying. Community leaders and organizations are working tirelessly to ensure AANHPI voices are heard. These efforts include:

Voter Registration Drives: Many organizations are hosting registration events to ensure that AANHPI voters are registered and prepared to cast their ballots. These drives often target college campuses and community centers.

Get-Out-The-Vote Campaigns: With many first-time voters, outreach efforts are focusing on educating individuals about the voting process, including how to vote early, vote by mail, and understand the issues on the ballot.

Cultural Engagement: Events that celebrate AANHPI culture while promoting civic engagement are also gaining traction. These gatherings provide a platform for discussing political issues within the context of cultural identity, fostering a sense of community and collective action.

Looking Ahead

As the November election approaches, the AANHPI electorate stands at a crossroads. With their growing numbers and increasing engagement, they are in a unique position to shape the future of American politics. Candidates who listen to their concerns and advocate for their needs may find themselves on the winning side of a fiercely contested election. As more AANHPIs step into the voting booth for the first time, their collective voice will not only influence immediate outcomes but also set the stage for long-term political engagement and representation. The stakes have never been higher, and the impact of AANHPI voters will resonate far beyond November 5.