Nine immigrants from various countries, including Lebanon, Germany, Taiwan and Mexico, took the oath to become U.S. citizens in a beautiful outdoor naturalization ceremony overlooking Los Angeles against the backdrop of the iconic Hollywood sign.
As the US presidential elections approach, many of these new citizens are eager to exercise their right to vote, with some already knowing who they will support.
Chia Hsien Tsai, a 33-year-old marketing manager from Taiwan, is one of them. She lived in the US for 11 years and applied for citizenship in March. “Being a part of the country I live in makes me feel special,” she said, although she did not reveal who she would vote for.
37-year-old French actress Florian Turchet was inspired by American films and TV shows. She is now registered to vote in California and plans to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris, citing women’s rights and reproductive rights concerns. “I want to be a part of the political movement in this country,” she said, adding, “Even though California is a Democratic state, I want to be able to participate and raise my voice and show that this It is important for me to stand up for my rights.”
Phoenix de Los Angeles Lopez Dal, a 31-year-old Venezuelan set dresser, is expected to vote for former President Donald Trump. His view is that there should be freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the right to keep and bear arms.
German filmmaker Dennis Baer, 46, wants to vote for Harris to protect democracy, especially after the January 6 US Capitol attack. Baer has always seen America as a land of freedom and opportunity. “I just want to keep this whole democracy intact,” Baer said. “And people have to be respected when they lose, that’s part of it, and if you can’t do that, you shouldn’t be in politics.”
The hustle and bustle of the US Presidential elections has intensified, now only a few days are left for November 5. There is a tough race between Harris and Trump for the White House. These individuals, along with millions of other Americans, will shape the future of the country with their votes.