Asian-American voters, younger turnout fuel blue wave for Democrats in midterms

In the 2026 midterm elections, Asian-American voters played a crucial role in helping Democrats win a significant victory, according to a new poll. Conducted by BSP Research and the African-American Research Collaborative, the 10,141-voter survey revealed that AAPI voters not only turned out in higher numbers but also strongly supported Democratic candidates.

Harvard professor Taeku Lee noted a nine-point shift in voting preference for Asians towards Democrats compared to the 2024 election. The poll found that 56% of AAPI voters backed Democrat Kamala Harris, while 34% supported Republican Donald Trump. In House races, Democrats received 64% of the vote, while Republicans remained steady at 33%.

The cost of living, particularly inflation, jobs, and healthcare costs, emerged as the top concerns across racial groups, with food and grocery prices, petrol prices, and healthcare costs cited as the most pressing issues. Younger AAPI voters also showed increased engagement, with one in eight voting for the first time in 2026 and nearly half of those aged 40 or younger casting their first ballot in 2022 or later.

Democrats were more likely to contact AAPI voters compared to Republicans and non-partisan groups, with one in three AAPI respondents hearing from these organizations about registration and voting. Majorities across racial groups expressed concerns about democracy, with 70% worried that Congress was not adequately checking the president's power and 73% of AAPI voters believing Republicans were hostile towards them.

The poll's findings underscore the importance of Asian-American voters and their alignment with other communities of color in supporting progressive policies and holding power accountable.