Naturalized Citizens should never be stopped running for Congress!
A story of “acquired patriotism.” Gordon Guthrie To those who continue to question the rights of naturalized citizens to run for Congress, I invite you to consider my perspective, for whatever it may be worth. From a Green Card Holder, U.S. Navy Sailor, to a US Citizen Arriving in the United States as a lawful permanent resident marked more than just a change in geography—it was the beginning of a profound transformation in identity, purpose, and belonging. From the moment I set foot on American soil, I felt a deep desire to contribute to the country that had opened its doors to me and offered opportunities I could scarcely imagine elsewhere. Even before completing my Navy career, I fulfilled the five-year residency requirement and applied for U.S. citizenship. On Constitution Day—September 17th, during the 200th anniversary of the U.S. Constitution, also celebrated as Citizenship Day —I made a life-defining decision. This was not a burea...