The Arab American Civic Council is proud to release Understanding Arab Voters in California, a new survey that offers critical insight into the priorities, concerns, and values of Arab American voters across the state.

This survey centers the attitudes of a community that is too often overlooked in political analysis and public discourse. At a time of economic uncertainty, Gaza genocide, and heightened concerns around civil rights, Arab American voters are speaking clearly about what matters most to them—and policymakers should be listening.

Key findings from the survey:
– High Engagement: More than 95% of respondents voted in the 2024 election and 91.7% plan to vote in 2026.  87.7% feel they are not adequately represented.
– Top Issues: Jobs and the economy, Gaza, inflation, taxes, and civil liberties. 
– Hate Crimes:  41.7% experienced or knew someone who experienced a hate crime, but only 33.3% reported it.

This survey tells a clear story: Arab Americans in California are highly engaged in civic life but increasingly disillusioned with the political institutions meant to represent them. Strong voter participation and continued intent to vote show an electorate that has not disengaged from democracy, but is actively reassessing where trust, accountability, and legitimacy lie.

These findings challenge narrow assumptions about Arab American voters and highlight a community that is deeply engaged and driven by both local and global issues.