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 bureaucratic formality or a shortcut to naturalization—it was a heartfelt commitment to serve a nation I had come to love deeply.

⚓ Embracing the Call to Serve

Joining the Navy meant stepping into a world of discipline, duty, and shared sacrifice. The training was intense, the expectations high, and the lifestyle demanding—but I welcomed it all. I found myself among people from every social class, each bringing their own story, culture, and strength to the mission. Together, we forged bonds rooted in honor, courage, and commitment.

Military Service gave me more than a uniform—it gave me purpose. It was not about defending borders or fulfilling assignments; it was about living the values that define America. I learned resilience, teamwork, and the quiet strength of sacrifice—lessons that have stayed with me long after my active duty ended. One might say that serving in the military accelerates the process of becoming an adult.

 

🌎 Finding Unity in Diversity

One of the most powerful aspects of my military service was witnessing the beauty of America’s diversity in action. I stood beside sailors who spoke different languages, practiced different faiths, and came from vastly diverse backgrounds. We shared a mission and a belief in something greater than ourselves. In those moments, I understood what it truly meant to belong, not through assimilation, but through contribution.

🛡️

 Citizenship Through Service

The path to citizenship through military service was not without its trials. There were moments of doubt, of exhaustion, of questioning. But in those moments, I found strength in the ideals I had chosen to uphold—every challenge, whether during deployment or in quiet reflection, reaffirmed my decision to serve. Belonging is not inherent. It requires action, sacrifice, and commitment.

 

🗽 A Voice for Those Who Serve

Today, I look back on my journey with pride. My time as a green card holder is behind me, but the lessons and memories of my service endure. They remind me that America is not just a place—it is a promise—a promise of opportunity, of purpose, and home. It is troubling when officials suggest barring naturalized citizens, who have served honorably, from holding office in the United States Congress. Such views are not merely mistaken but an affront to the very ideals of inclusion and merit that define this nation. I understand the constitutional restriction on the presidency for naturalized citizens. But to deny us the opportunity to serve in other elected roles, despite our sacrifices, is unjust and shortsighted. Let us serve—not just in uniform, but in leadership. Let us continue to give back to the country we have chosen to serve and defend. And yes, I agree that those who harbor hatred for the United States should not represent it. However, those who have proven their loyalty through service deserve the opportunity to lead and shape their future.

I oppose blocking naturalized citizens from holding congressional or political office, except for the office of the US President.

Whether or not you approve of the politicians listed below, the fact remains: they raised their right hand and took the oath, just as I did. If you disagree with their actions, vote them out. Do not dismiss or discredit naturalized citizens. They are often as committed, if not more, to this country as native-born citizens.