Recent reports reveal a notable shift among Korean American voters, with many indicating a departure from Vice President Kamala Harris and the Democratic Party largely due to concerns over inflation and the economy. According to data from the July 2024 Asian American Voter Survey, only 38 percent of Korean Americans identified as Democrats, a significant drop from the 51 percent reported in 2020. In contrast, the percentage identifying as Republicans has risen to 25 percent, showing a growing discontent within the community toward the current administration’s handling of economic issues.
Job performance and economic stability are critical concerns for Korean American voters, highlighted by the survey results that show 57 percent deem jobs and the economy as “extremely important” in their voting decisions. Moreover, inflation has resonated strongly within this demographic, with 58 percent citing it as a key issue. The rising cost of living, particularly in housing—where 51 percent deemed it “extremely important”—indicates that economic struggles are overshadowing traditional party lines for this community.
In addition to the Asian American Voter Survey, a separate poll conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago revealed an increasing shift toward support for former President Donald Trump among Korean Americans. In April and May, 27 percent expressed support for Trump, which increased to 35 percent by September, despite Joe Biden’s earlier support levels of 49 percent. The data suggests an evolving political landscape for Korean Americans, particularly in light of Biden’s withdrawal from the presidential race and Harris’s uncertain economic policies.
Individual accounts further illustrate these shifts. Lee Sung Yong, a Korean barbecue restaurant owner in Georgia, expressed frustration over the rising costs of ingredients, attributing an almost 80 percent price increase on certain items directly to the current administration’s economic performance. His experience is emblematic of a wider trend reported by many in the community, indicating a disappointment in Biden’s policies and a willingness to consider Republican alternatives like Trump.
The implications of these changing sentiments could have considerable effects on key electoral states, especially those like Georgia with substantial Korean American populations. Insights from Politico underscore that the Korean American community in Georgia is relatively new, with many individuals who are first-generation immigrants lacking deep-rooted party loyalty. This demographic’s recent arrival and limited political engagement suggest that a backlash against the Democrats could impact election outcomes more significantly than anticipated.
However, it’s essential to consider that not all Korean Americans are unified in their shift away from the Democratic Party. Some, like Clara Lee, voice their concerns regarding Trump’s past rhetoric toward immigrants, emphasizing that the rise of racist sentiments during his presidency has made them wary of supporting him. Lee’s perspective represents a more nuanced view within the community, indicating that while economic issues are driving some away from the Democrats, other longstanding concerns regarding immigration and social justice continue to play a crucial role in shaping political allegiances among Korean Americans.