In brief
AAPIs express widespread dissatisfaction with President Trump’s immigration policies, with a recent survey showing that about 60% believe that his actions have done more harm than good. The poll highlights significant opposition to deportation practices and overall attitudes towards U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
WASHINGTON (AP) — A recent AAPI Data/AP-NORC poll reveals that a majority of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) believe President Donald Trump has exacerbated issues surrounding immigration and border security during his second term. Approximately 60% of AAPI adults expressed that Trump has harmed immigration practices, contrasting with only 40% of the general US population sharing that sentiment.
The poll, conducted by AAPI Data and the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, shows that around two-thirds of AAPI adults feel that Trump's administration has 'gone too far' in deporting undocumented immigrants, a stark difference compared to roughly half of Americans in general.
Trump's tenure has seen numerous sweeping immigration policies, including a recent suspension of immigrant visa processing for groups from 75 countries. Alarmingly, while arrests at the US-Mexico border have dropped, the daily detentions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have more than doubled, from approximately 40,000 daily in December 2024 to around 70,000 last month.
The survey results come on the heels of escalating tensions regarding deportation tactics, highlighted by controversial incidents involving ICE agents that have drawn significant public backlash.
Pervasive Discontent with Immigration Enforcement
Within the AAPI demographic, 73% reported an unfavorable view of ICE, with the discontent extending across party lines. Notably, while AAPI Republicans showed a less negative perspective on ICE, the overall sentiment within the community leans heavily towards opposition against hardline immigration policies.
As many as 60% of survey respondents oppose extensive enforcement operations in immigrant-populated neighborhoods, while nearly 70% are against allowing ICE agents to conceal their identities during arrests.
AAPI adults are divided on whether undocumented immigrants pose significant risks to US labor markets and welfare resources. The poll indicates an ongoing concern within the community about immigration enforcement tactics, pushing for humane and just practices.
The AAPI population demonstrates a growing demand for sensible immigration reforms, as many believe the current policies are causing undue harm to families and communities. The survey sheds light on the intricate views held within this demographic regarding immigration and the ongoing debate surrounding it.
The poll, encompassing 1,197 AAPI adults, was conducted from February 2-9, 2026, showcasing the necessity for transforming immigration policy discussions to include the voices of often underrepresented groups.
