Our ENdorsement Approach

We endorse candidates in races where our collective support can truly make a difference. Our endorsements aren’t about political clout—they’re about building trust, uplifting people power, and helping get the right folks elected so we can fight for what matters.

Asian Americans are the fastest-growing population and voting bloc in Georgia. In tight elections across the state, AAPI voters have delivered decisive margins and we’re just getting started.

But political power isn’t just about numbers. It’s about making sure our communities are seen, heard, and respected year-round, not just when it’s time to vote. We’re working to make sure AAPI communities in Georgia have leaders who understand our issues and govern in partnership with us.

Here’s a glimpse of the community we move with:

• 17.6k newsletter readers

• 12.7k Instagram followers

• 6.3k followers on X

• 4.2k Facebook followers

• 150+ engaged members in our political education and organizing programs

We’re committed to making this process clear, transparent, and grounded in values. Here’s what to expect:

1. We do our research.
   We look at who’s running, which races are competitive, and what’s at stake for our communities.

2. We invite candidates to apply.
   Candidates are asked to fill out a detailed questionnaire and meet with our Endorsement Committee—which includes AAAF staff and at times community members.

3. We ask hard questions.
   We don’t just ask what candidates believe—we ask what they’ve done, what they’re willing to risk, and how they plan to govern with the people most impacted.

4. We make decisions collectively.
   Our team and committee look at the full picture: values, track record, vision, and the chance to make a real difference.

We evaluate every candidate based on a few key values. This helps us stay rooted in what matters most to our communities. 

To be considered for endorsement, AAAF carefully considers the following criteria: 

Identity & Representation

• Does the candidate’s lived experience inform their politics and priorities?

• Do they speak honestly about race, class, and representation?

• Do they understand what it means to show up consistently for AAPI and working-class communities?

• Does their platform reflect the needs of historically excluded communities and offer a clear vision for equity and justice?

Track Record, Leadership & Action

• Have they fought for real change—through legislation, organizing, advocacy, or community leadership?

• Have they authored, sponsored, or supported initiatives or policies that align with AAAF’s values and priorities?

• If they haven’t held office, do they have a record of impactful organizing, advocacy campaigns, or community-based work?

• Can they build coalitions, take bold stances, and withstand political pressure?

• Are they open to accountability, reflection, and growth when they fall short?

 Policy Platform & Values

• Does the candidate’s platform reflect clear values rooted in equity, justice, and community power?

• Have they worked with impacted communities, organizers, and advocates to shape their agenda and ensure it reflects lived experience?

• Are they willing to learn and grow on policy areas they’re less familiar with, especially when guided by the communities most affected?
  Do they understand the scope of the office they’re seeking, and are their goals appropriately aligned with the types of policies that role can influence?

We recognize that policy priorities should match the role a candidate is seeking. While the specific issues will differ depending on whether someone is running for school board, city or county office, state legislature, or federal office, we expect their platform to be grounded in the following values:

• Equity in Education: Commitment to inclusive, safe, and well-funded public schools that support all students, especially immigrant, LGBTQ+, and low-income youth.

• Dignity and Safety for All: Policies that reduce harm, invest in care over criminalization, and protect the rights of immigrants, workers, and historically marginalized groups.

• Economic Justice: Support for living wages, worker protections, and resources that allow all families to thrive, particularly communities historically excluded from opportunity.

• Language & Cultural Access: Ensuring all communities can access public services in their language and with cultural respect.

• Health & Bodily Autonomy: Defense of reproductive freedom, gender justice, and equitable access to healthcare, including mental health.

• Democracy & Participation: Commitment to expanding access to the ballot, protecting voting rights, and ensuring all communities can participate fully in civic life.

We expect candidates to understand what’s possible within the role they are seeking—and to demonstrate how their values will translate into real action.

Impact, Opportunity, Capacity & Strategic Alignment

• Is this a race where AAAF’s endorsement and organizing could influence the outcome?

• Does this seat or district directly impact AAPI communities or core issue areas?

• Will this candidate’s leadership help build long-term political power for communities that have been excluded from decision-making?

• Are there broader strategic implications of this race, for movement alignment, policy fights, or coalition work?

Accountability, Governance & Relationship-Building

• Are they committed to co-governing with our communities, not just campaigning to them?

• Will they remain accessible and responsive through regular check-ins, community forums, or town halls?

• Do they welcome transparency, ongoing partnership, and community-informed decision-making?

• Will they build and maintain relationships with grassroots partners—not just political institutions?

You don’t need to be a candidate to be part of this work. Our endorsements are powered by organizers, volunteers, and community members who care about building a better Georgia for all of us. Join us in choosing leaders who reflect our values—and holding them accountable once in office.

• Apply for Endorsement

• Join Our Membership

• Volunteer with us

• See our Currently Endorsed Candidates

• See Our Previously Endorsed Candidates