How Filipino Americans could help decide the U.S. presidential race

Key battleground state of Nevada is 'going to be incredibly close,' union official says

Many Asian Americans do not identify with any political parties, and mobilizing them as voters could swing the presidential election. (Photo by Pak Yiu)

PAK YIU, Nikkei staff writer

October 30, 2024 15:00 JST

LAS VEGAS, Nevada -- With Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris and former Republican President Donald Trump locked in a tight race in Nevada, both major parties are stepping up efforts to win over one of the battleground state's fastest-growing groups: Filipino Americans.

Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have flocked to Nevada, lured by jobs in the state's hospitality and health care industries. Since 2012, their numbers have jumped 45.1% to more than 409,000, with Filipinos the largest subgroup. AAPI people now make up nearly 12% of the state's electorate.