Poll Reveals AAPI Views on Immigration Enforcement
March 23, 2026 – A recent poll conducted by AAPI Data and AP-NORC indicates that 73 percent of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) adults hold a negative view of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), significantly higher than the 60 percent discontent rate among the general population. Notably, 90 percent of Democrats from both demographics express unfavorable opinions about ICE, with 61 percent of AAPI Republicans sharing similar sentiments, compared to 71 percent of Republicans overall. These results emerge against the backdrop of heightened deportation initiatives, including notable incidents of ICE detaining American citizens.
AAPI Perspectives on Immigration Benefits and Risks
The survey reveals that AAPI adults acknowledge both advantages and concerns regarding immigration. Many believe that legal immigration bolsters American businesses by supplying skilled labor, enhances cultural diversity, fuels economic growth, and fills job vacancies that domestic workers may overlook. AAPI respondents view these factors as significant benefits far more frequently than the general populace. Additionally, a majority recognize that unauthorized immigrants can provide considerable economic contributions, with 58 percent citing their ability to take jobs Americans typically avoid, while 54 percent assert that they aid overall economic expansion.
Concerns Over Immigration and Crime Rates
While only a minority of AAPI adults perceive legal immigration as a substantial risk, approximately half regard it as a minor threat due to potential strains on welfare systems and job markets. About 60 percent express concerns over its association with crime, whereas concerns about illegal voting among immigrants rate lower, with only half of respondents alarmed by this issue. Interestingly, the general population exhibits a heightened anxiety regarding the risk of illegal voting compared to AAPI adults.
Views on Trump’s Immigration Policies
When assessing the impact of President Trump’s policies on immigration and border security, 61 percent of AAPI adults believe he has caused more harm than good. A significant 67 percent argue that his approach to deporting undocumented immigrants is excessive, and 63 percent feel he has imposed overly rigid restrictions on legal entrants. Only 22 percent prioritize the deportation of undocumented immigrants as a principal agenda item for the federal government, with a higher emphasis on enabling refugee entry to escape violence (26%). Conversely, just 9 percent advocate for the expedited migration of white South Africans facing persecution to be a primary focus.
Security at the U.S.-Mexico Border
Regarding border security, 31 percent of AAPI adults consider it a top priority, with 38 percent acknowledging it as a moderate priority. These figures are notably lower than both the general population’s prioritization (45 percent) and last year’s AAPI data, where 42 percent emphasized border security. Only 9 percent of AAPI Democrats deem it critical, contrasting sharply with 25 percent among all Democrats, while Republicans and independents show more consistent support across both groups.
Visa Policy Perceptions Among AAPI Adults
On the topic of visa regulations, 22 percent of AAPI respondents prioritize deporting individuals who overstay their visas, while 37 percent call for moderate measures. Concerns regarding visa overstays are heightened when linked to criminal activity—66 percent view this as a significant issue. However, few AAPI adults support blanket bans on immigration from countries known for overstays or deportation actions against those who marry American citizens.
Economic Stress and Concerns About Policy Solutions
Financial stability remains a pressing issue for AAPI adults. Though 64 percent report a stable financial situation, many face significant stress from escalating grocery, medical, and housing costs, with each factor cited by half of the respondents. Confidence in managing expenses is low, with only 25 percent feeling assured about their ability to do so, and only 15 percent believing they could find suitable employment if needed. Just 29 percent think that today’s youth will achieve a higher standard of living than their parents.
Perceptions of Trump’s Economic Impact
AAPI adults largely reject the notion that President Trump’s policies have effectively addressed economic challenges. Majorities express dissatisfaction with his administration’s handling of living costs (73 percent), healthcare expenses (69 percent), and job creation efforts (62 percent), while 76 percent criticize his tariffs as excessive. Overall, 72 percent of AAPI respondents hold a negative view of Trump, alongside unfavorable opinions toward key administration figures and the Republican Party (68 percent). In contrast, perspectives on the Democratic Party remain mixed, with 49 percent favorability versus 44 percent unfavorability.
This national survey was conducted from February 2 to 9, 2026, through the Amplify AAPI Monthly Survey, part of NORC’s Amplify AAPI® Panel, designed to accurately represent the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander populations in the U.S. It included online interviews with 1,197 individuals, aged 18 and older, speaking English and various Asian languages. The margin of sampling error is +/- 4.6 percentage points.
