Since 1965, the Asian-American population has grown from less than 1% of

Since 1965, the Asian-American population has grown from less than 1% of the total US population to roughly 6% and now represents the fastest-growing racial group in the nation.

With the demographics of the United States changing radically, both major parties are exploring ways to reach out to growing segments of the population. But the results of a Pew Research Center study exploring the social and political attitudes of Asian-Americans show that Republicans are facing an uphill battle.

While the Asian-American vote, like the Latino vote, is heavily motivated by immigration policy, the Pew study suggests that a large factor in their exodus from the GOP is their overwhelming support for a bigger government that provides more services.

Asian-Americans have been steadily moving towards the left since 1992, when they chose George H.W. Bush over Bill Clinton by a substantial 54-30 margin. Since then, their support for Democratic candidates has increased every election; in 2008 they voted for Barack Obama by a 62-35 margin and again in 2012, with 73-26 supporting the Democratic incumbent.

A Center for American Progress study also found that Asian-Americans indicate the highest level of support for cultural and ethnic diversity among all groups polled.

Via Talking Points Memo.