Full Breakdown
Rising Concerns Among Asian American and Pacific Islander Adults Regarding Inflation and Costs
1/22/2026, 12:18:33 PM
Core Event: Inflation Worries Among AAPI Adults
A recent survey conducted by AAPI Data and the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research reveals that approximately half of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) adults prioritize government action on inflation and the high cost of living. This concern is notably higher than the one-third of U.S. adults who view inflation as a pressing issue, indicating a significant disparity in economic anxiety within this demographic.
Key Findings from the Survey
The survey, conducted in early December 2025, highlights that AAPI adults have increasingly focused on inflation and affordability, with 44% expressing a desire for the government to prioritize health care. This marks a rise from the previous year, where only 40% of AAPI adults indicated a similar concern. The findings suggest that AAPI adults are particularly affected by rising costs in high-expense areas such as California and New York, where many reside.
Economic Pressures
The survey indicates that AAPI adults are more likely than their white counterparts to emphasize unemployment, jobs, and housing costs as government priorities. For instance, Kevin Tu, a Taiwanese American, articulated the challenges of balancing child care costs with mortgage payments, reflecting the broader economic pressures faced by families in high-cost regions.
Criticism of Government Response
Dissatisfaction with the government's handling of economic issues has grown among AAPI adults, with 70% expressing low confidence in the government's ability to address these concerns, a rise from 60% post-2024 election. This sentiment may be influenced by perceptions of President Donald Trump's administration, with some individuals, like Ernie Roaza, drawing parallels between current governance and past authoritarian regimes.
Broader Economic Context
Despite Trump's claims of progress, many Americans, including AAPI adults, feel that their financial situations have not improved. A CBS News poll indicates that while Republicans generally view Trump's economic policies favorably, a significant portion of the population remains frustrated and uneasy about inflation and its impact on daily life. The focus on inflation as a primary economic concern underscores the disconnect between governmental assurances and public sentiment.
Official Statements & Responses
Karthick Ramakrishnan, executive director of AAPI Data, noted the unique impact of tariffs on AAPI consumers, particularly regarding imported goods. He emphasized that rising costs are not just a general market issue but specifically affect ethnic grocery prices, contributing to heightened anxiety within the community.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m trying to figure out how to balance possible part-time day care with our mortgage, with cost of living,” — Kevin Tu, Taiwanese American
- “I’ve seen it before. It’s almost laughable, but it’s scary at the same time.” — Ernie Roaza, Retired Geologist
- “It’s cheaper for us to get a flight ticket and go to India and have a medical procedure and come back than it is to have that done here,” — Srilasya Volam, Business Consultant
What's Next: Future Implications
As the 2026 elections approach, the growing economic concerns among AAPI adults may influence political discourse and voter priorities. The ongoing dialogue about inflation and health care costs is likely to shape the platforms of candidates seeking to address these pressing issues.
