Asian Americans in San Francisco Turn Away from Left-Leaning Democrats
Rising Crime, Distrust, and Conservative Influence
Amidst the liberal stronghold of San Francisco, a notable shift is underway within the city’s Asian American community. Many, ranging from Trump supporters to left-leaning organizers, are disillusioned with the modern Democratic Party, according to a report in The San Francisco Standard.
Antipathy towards Far-Left Policies
At a recent Chinese New Year celebration, State Sen. Scott Wiener’s warnings about the potential dangers of a Trump presidency fell on deaf ears for some Asian American attendees. Lai Wah Hun, a Trump supporter present at the event, expressed his disapproval of the Democratic Party’s leftward shift: "Democrats are too left. I don’t like them."
This sentiment extends beyond isolated incidents. In the 2024 election, neighborhoods with large Asian populations, such as Visitacion Valley and Portola, showed a significant swing towards Trump. The seven neighborhoods with the highest Trump vote share also have the largest Asian populations in the city.
Law-and-Order Concerns
Underlying this political shift is growing distrust towards the Democratic Party, particularly regarding public safety. "When it comes to public safety, Asians are law-and-order kind of folks," said Rex Tabora, executive director of the Asian Pacific American Community Center in Visitacion Valley.
The high-profile crimes committed against Asian victims have reignited fears and disillusionment among Asian American communities. Ellen Lee Zhou, a vocal Trump supporter, believes that Democratic leadership is to blame. Through her Chinese-language radio show "Companion on the Road," she regularly criticizes Democrats and encourages her audience, estimated at 30,000-50,000 listeners, to support Trump.
Dissatisfaction with National Democrats
Local Democrats acknowledge the erosion of their support within the Asian American demographic. "It’s clear that voters are frustrated with national Democrats, including many in the Chinese community in San Francisco," said Nancy Tung, chair of San Francisco’s Democratic Party. "I’m committed to making sure we engage the Chinese community and other immigrant communities to hear their concerns and win them back."
Progressive Disconnect
The disconnect between the Democratic Party and Asian American voters is exemplified by the name change of a local progressive Asian group, The Rose Pak Democratic Club. Club leaders removed "Democratic" from their name as a wake-up call to the party. President Jeremy Lee noted that concepts like "defund the police" have alienated many Chinese Americans.
Moderate Groups Gain Traction
In contrast to the progressive stance, the Chinese American Democratic Club (CADC), a moderate group, has gained popularity by distancing itself from progressivism. President Josephine Zhao stated, "We are proud to help our community in voicing their centrist views."
Conclusion
The growing disaffection of Asian Americans with the Democratic Party in San Francisco is a reflection of a broader trend within the community. Rising crime concerns, coupled with a perceived leftward shift in the party, have eroded trust and led to a reevaluation of political affiliations. Moderate groups, emphasizing law-and-order policies and fiscal responsibility, are filling the void left by progressive Democrats. The future of the Democratic Party’s hold on the Asian American vote in San Francisco remains uncertain, but it is clear that the party must adapt to the changing concerns and values of this important demographic.
