APALA National President Johanna Puno Hester stated: "Though last night's debate did focus more on important policy issues, one thing remained clear: one candidate had no substantive grasp on the issues or any plans to back up words, while one candidate is prepared to do so. We, at APALA, stand behind candidates up and down the ballot who not only understand the issues important to the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community but also stand up for all working families, immigrants, and women."
"I'm glad that the debate included discussion on important issues like immigration and abortion. However, what was lacking was any discussion of how to address police violence in our communities and how their plans would stand with the movement for Black Lives," added APALA Executive Director Gregory A. Cendana. "Communities of color will have a powerful influence on the leadership of this country, and candidates need to include our voices, especially with regards to issues that affect us so close to home."
Hester ended: "We're doing everything we can to stop the threat that is Donald Trump, who has built a campaign spewing the most un-American things of racism, xenophobia, and misogyny. If we elect the GOP candidate on Nov. 8th, the lives of our children and families will indelibly be changed for the worse."