With just 60 days remaining until the election, the Chinese Americans for Harris-Walz campaign recently hosted a national online launch meeting, uniting volunteer organizations across the U.S. to rally support for the presidential election. Among the notable attendees were U.S. Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, and Members of Congress Grace Meng, Judy Chu, and Ted Lieu, reflecting strong involvement from prominent Asian American leaders.

Campaign data underscores the pivotal role Asian American voters have played in past elections, especially in swing states. In the 2020 election, for example, their votes were crucial to the narrow victories in Georgia and Arizona, both of which were decided by margins of less than 0.5%. As the 2024 elections approach, the significance of the Asian American electorate is poised to increase even further.

Julie Su emphasized the troubling rise in anti-Asian incidents reported during the pandemic, which surpassed the total from the prior decade and can largely be traced back to inflammatory rhetoric from the Trump administration. “We have the power to change this narrative and ensure that hatred does not define our country,” she urged, encouraging the community to engage actively in the election to combat anti-Asian sentiments.

Grace Meng pointed out the vital role of swing states and grassroots mobilization. She noted that voter turnout among Asian Americans in these key areas is critical, with community gatherings and family discussions serving as essential catalysts for voter engagement. “Our success in November will begin in these seemingly small venues—from living rooms to local restaurants, from casual family chats to discussions in Chinese schools,” Meng stressed.

Judy Chu addressed the “China Initiative,” which emerged during the Trump administration and has since been dismantled by the Biden-Harris administration, although some House Republicans are working to revive it with a vote anticipated next week. “Kamala Harris made history as the first Asian, Black, and female Vice President. I believe that if she is elected president, she will continue to advocate for the Asian American community,” she asserted.

Ted Lieu recalled a moment when Trump mocked Elaine Chao’s name, using derogatory terms like “Coco” and “Chow,” rooted in racism toward Asian Americans. “When Trump insulted Elaine Chao, he was also demeaning the entire Asian American community,” Lieu stated, urging community members to contribute to the election effort by making donations and participating in phone banking.