APAICS | Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies

Meng and Shinagawa clinch New York primaries

Joining historic class of AAPI candidates who will affect the balance of power in Congress

Last night, two Asian American candidates advanced to their general elections: Grace Meng (NY-06) and APAICS Alumni Nate Shinagawa (NY-23). Meng and Shinagawa join a class of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) challengers who have advanced to the general election from the primaries that have already transpired. Of the 29 AAPI challenges this year, 18 have faced primaries and 12 are advancing. The remainder are still fighting for their party’s nomination.

The Meng and Shinagawa victories showcase the new rising political influence of AAPIs. If victory repeats itself this November, Meng will be the first Asian American Member of Congress ever to represent New York City, a city that boasts of diversity with 13% of its population being AAPI. Shinagawa also beat out two primary opponents of the newly drawn 23rd District, who were all first-time congressional challengers.

This 2012 election cycle is truly historic. The following races are being highlighted or supported by each candidate’s respective national party. This is not an exclusive list of viable candidates, but rather shows that AAPI candidates will affect the balance of power in the US Congress.