Empowering Filipino American in Texas: Addressing Low Turnout Among a Growing Community

A closer look at understanding low voter turnout among Filipino Americans

By André Averion, Communications Chair

Published September 25th, 2024.

Filipino Americans represent a significant and growing demographic in the United States, but their voter turnout remains notably low. Despite being the third-largest Asian American group, Filipino Americans had the lowest voter turnout among Asian Americans in the 2020 elections, with only 54% of eligible voters casting their ballots. As the 2024 election approaches, understanding the reasons behind this low turnout is essential for both policymakers and advocates working to engage this community.

In Texas, where the Filipino American population is estimated at 234,091, only 100,340 are eligible to vote, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. This substantial gap between population size and eligible voters highlights a key factor in the turnout issue: voter eligibility. Many Filipino Americans, particularly those who are recent immigrants, may not yet have U.S. citizenship, and thus are unable to participate in elections.

Another important factor influencing Filipino American voter turnout is the variety in voting preferences. The 2024 Asian American Voter Survey found that 48% of Filipino American voters prefer to vote in-person at a polling place, while 37% favor voting by mail and 14% prefer dropping off their ballots at an election office or polling place. These preferences reflect a diverse range of approaches to voting, but they can also present challenges.

In states like Texas, where Filipino Americans have a strong presence, voting by mail has historically faced greater restrictions compared to other states. 

These restrictive policies may discourage some from participating, particularly those who prefer to vote by mail but are unable to do so due to logistical barriers. Additionally, Filipino Americans who prefer to vote in-person may be deterred by long lines or the distance to polling places, particularly as the general Filipino community in DFW is geographically dispersed.

Historically, Filipino Americans have had lower voter turnout compared to other Asian American groups. Many Filipino Americans, particularly older immigrants, may not feel fully engaged in U.S. politics, either due to language barriers or a lack of connection to the political process given Filipino Americans are generally underrepresented in political campaigns and outreach efforts. As political campaigns increasingly target specific ethnic groups, Filipino Americans may be overlooked in favor of larger or more politically active constituencies unless they speak up.

Despite these challenges, there is potential for increased Filipino American voter engagement. The 2024 Asian American Voter Survey found that 90% of Filipino American voters plan to vote in November, although only 74% are “absolutely certain” they will do so. This slight uncertainty could translate into lower turnout if voters face barriers on Election Day or are not sufficiently motivated.

Improving turnout will require targeted efforts to engage Filipino American voters more directly. Political campaigns, advocacy groups, and community organizations can all play a role in increasing outreach to this community. Ensuring that voting materials are accessible in multiple languages, providing information on candidates and issues relevant to the Filipino American community, and making voting easier through policies like early voting or expanded mail-in voting could all help boost turnout.

By recognizing the unique challenges faced by Filipino American voters and working to create a more inclusive and accessible electoral system, policymakers and advocates can help ensure that this important community has a stronger voice in the democratic process.