Asian Americans Express Concerns Over Federal Policies

A new study by The Asian American Foundation (TAAF) reveals that Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) are more likely than other Americans to believe recent federal policies have negatively impacted their communities, citing concerns over immigration, tariffs, and visa regulations.

Fri May 08 2026

Federal Policies' Harmful Impact on AAPI Communities

A recent study by The Asian American Foundation (TAAF) indicates that Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) are more likely than other Americans to perceive recent federal policy changes as harmful to their communities. The survey highlights significant concerns regarding tariffs on imported goods from countries like China, higher fees or tighter rules for skilled worker visas (H-1B), and new limits and fees on student visas for international students. For instance, 71% of AAPI respondents viewed tariffs on goods from China as harmful, compared to 47% of all U.S. adults. Similarly, 67% of AAPI individuals felt that tighter rules for skilled worker visas were harmful, compared to 43% of the general public.

Rising Distrust and Efforts to Combat Stereotypes

The study also found that AAPI respondents are more likely to distrust ICE and its ability to enforce immigration laws fairly and safely. A concerning statistic revealed that one in five U.S. adults believes Chinese Americans pose a threat to the nation's culture. These perceived threats largely involve national security (85%), the job market (72%), educational opportunities (62%), and culture values and norms (57%). Norman Chen, CEO of TAAF, explained that stereotypes portraying Asian Americans as perpetual foreigners have been exacerbated, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a spike in anti-Asian hate. Chen emphasized the need to combat these stereotypes and highlight the immense contributions Asian Americans have made over generations. TAAF is actively working to ensure that AAPI communities are represented in classrooms, boardrooms, and throughout society to foster a more inclusive understanding.