PHILADELPHIA — A month ahead of the upcoming Election Day, canvassers from the Asian and Pacific Islander Political Alliance gathered in the parking lot of Philadelphia’s only Jollibee, a symbolic hotspot reflecting the growing Asian American demographic in the area.
This location has emerged as a central meeting point for APIPA members, who are actively engaging with the community daily in the lead-up to elections, endorsing Vice President Harris and other candidates. James Delos Reyes, the group’s deputy field director, emphasizes how indicative the establishment of Jollibee is of the increasing Asian population. “It is home to a large Korean, Vietnamese, and South Asian community that continues to grow,” he stated.
Notably, Asian American and Pacific Islanders are recognized as the fastest-growing voting demographic in the U.S. Pennsylvania has witnessed a dramatic 55% increase in eligible voters from this group between 2010 and 2020. Although they represent a small portion—around 3%—of Pennsylvania’s eligible voters, their influence could be pivotal in determining the election outcome, especially as the presidential race is tightly contested.
AAPI Community Engagement in Pennsylvania
In 2020, Joe Biden’s victory in Pennsylvania was partially attributed to record turnout from AAPI voters. Montgomery County Commissioner Neil Makhija highlighted that small communities can significantly impact elections, especially amid heightened polarization within the country.
The county has launched a mobile voting unit to facilitate registration and absentee ballot casting, with plans to reach various community events. This van is equipped with multilingual information about voting, reflecting the diverse needs of the community.
Engagement with Asian American voters has been historically lacking, but the current landscape shows signs of change. Delos Reyes mentioned the challenges in reaching these voters, noting that translating essential voting materials requires substantial resources. His organization ensures their pamphlets are available in simplified Chinese, Vietnamese, and Urdu to cater to their audience.
Candidates Recognizing AAPI Impact
The current campaigns have ramped up their outreach to AAPI voters, with Vice President Harris’ campaign dedicating three staffers solely to this group. Their advertising efforts aim to resonate with the community, highlighting personal narratives that connect with shared experiences.
In contrast, the Trump campaign has not prioritized specific outreach to AAPI communities. A campaign official indicated their approach targets broader demographics without tailored strategies for different groups.
As outreach strategies evolve, participation from AAPI voters could significantly impact elections in other pivotal states as well, with demographics indicating a growing presence in places like Nevada, North Carolina, and Georgia.
Building a Political Future
Advocacy organizations are striving to alter the perception of political engagement within Asian communities, combating the long-held notion that politics are not meant for them. Initiatives are increasingly focused on connecting with younger voters through diverse outreach efforts, including relatable cultural references and collaboration with influencers within these communities.
Linh Nguyễn, executive vice president of the AAPI Victory Fund, remarked on the transformation in political mobilization and awareness within the last decade, underscoring the necessity of recognizing the political presence of AAPI voters.
