More Immigrants Ready to Vote in the Upcoming Elections

In recent months, the naturalization process in the United States has significantly sped up, allowing many immigrants to obtain citizenship more quickly. This change has opened the door to a large number of new citizens who are now eligible to vote in the upcoming presidential elections, scheduled for November 2024.

Acceleration in Naturalization Times

Since late 2023, individuals applying for U.S. citizenship have noticed that the wait times for naturalization have drastically shortened. In fact, the process, which used to take up to 12 months, is now being completed in an average of five months, according to data from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

This improvement marks a significant change compared to just three years ago, when the process could stretch out for nearly a full year. Immigrants applying for citizenship must meet certain requirements, such as being lawful permanent residents for a specified period—usually five years, or three years if married to a U.S. citizen. They must also pass a series of exams, including an English test and one on U.S. history and government.

New Citizens Ready to Participate in Elections

Elvi Cano, who obtained her citizenship in December 2023 after being a legal permanent resident for more than 15 years, is an example of how this faster process is impacting immigrants. Cano, who worked in the film industry in Los Angeles, explained that she applied for citizenship in July and received her certificate in December of the same year. Now, with her citizenship in hand, Cano has already registered to vote in the November elections, a right she considers highly important.

Maria, another immigrant who recently naturalized, shares Cano’s excitement about being able to exercise her right to vote. “It gives you the right to vote, and for me, that’s very important,” she said.

Factors Behind the Acceleration

The federal government has attributed this speeding up of the naturalization process to the recovery from the backlogs accumulated during the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, USCIS offices faced significant challenges due to staffing shortages and operational disruptions caused by health restrictions. With improved conditions and more stable administration, response times have significantly reduced.

Political Impact and Criticism

However, this progress has not been without criticism. Some Republican sectors have suggested that the acceleration of the naturalization process could be politically motivated, aiming to secure the immigrant vote in the presidential elections. Despite these criticisms, the government maintains that the previous delays were a result of the pandemic, and the current efforts are aimed at ensuring that applicants no longer face unnecessary delays.

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Citizenship Rights and Requirements

The naturalization process is crucial for many immigrants, as it grants a range of rights and benefits, including the ability to vote, run for public office, and receive consular protection. To be eligible, applicants must be lawful permanent residents for a set period and demonstrate good moral character. Part of the process involves passing an English test and demonstrating knowledge of the U.S. government system and history.

Once the process is completed, applicants must attend a swearing-in ceremony to officially confirm their status as U.S. citizens.

The Impact of Naturalized Citizens on the Electorate

Naturalized immigrants represent approximately 10% of the U.S. electorate, a significant percentage in the context of the presidential elections. Their participation, especially in key states, could influence the outcome of the elections.

As more immigrants become naturalized and register to vote, the influence of the immigrant community on the U.S. political landscape is likely to grow. The acceleration of naturalization times not only eases access to citizenship but also promotes the political and social integration of immigrants into the country.

From: https://www.vozdeamerica.com/a/agilizan-tiempos-naturalizacion-eeuu-tiempo-votar/7809080.html 

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