Florida Law Limits Chinese Land Ownership, Sparks Asian American Response

Wen Raiti, a prominent Chinese American community leader in Jacksonville, Florida, has expressed growing discontent with the Republican Party following the passage of SB 264, a law that has sparked significant backlash within the Asian American community. State Rep. Anna Eskamani, a vocal critic of the legislation, noted that it has mobilized many individuals who have historically been disengaged from state politics. Raiti described the law as the “last straw” amid a climate of hostility and scapegoating directed at Asian Americans during the Covid-19 pandemic. SB 264 imposes restrictions on land purchases by citizens from several countries, including Cuba, Iran, and Russia, which advocates argue unfairly targets specific communities. The Justice Department previously supported Chinese plaintiffs challenging the law, but a judge ruled against them. Raiti and others in the community are questioning why they are being singled out despite their contributions to the country, highlighting a growing sense of frustration and urgency for political representation. In response to the legislation, community members are increasingly motivated to engage in the electoral process. Immigration attorney King noted that the law inspired her to run as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention, with at least 25 Chinese American voters switching their party affiliations to support her. Raiti emphasized that the Chinese community has traditionally been quiet in politics, but the current climate is prompting a shift toward greater activism. Despite a historical alignment with the Republican Party, many Asian Americans in Florida are reassessing their political affiliations. Eskamani pointed out that while the GOP has been perceived as supportive of small businesses, there is a growing realization among registered Republicans in the Asian American community that the party may not prioritize their interests.