WHEATON, Ill. (WBBM Newsradio) – For 75 people who became U.S. citizens Monday at Cantigny Park, another milestone could come within hours: casting their first ballot as Americans.
Participants from 34 countries took part in the naturalization ceremony, held one day before the midterm elections. Many said they planned to vote Monday or Tuesday.
“Because I would like to vote and, you know, I’m proud to be an American citizen,” said Justin who was asked what motivated him to pursue citizenship.
Originally from India, he said he’s lived in the United States for 15 years. Asked about voting Tuesday, he had an earlier plan.
“Yes. I’m actually going today.”
A new US citizen holds an American flag during their naturalization ceremony in Wheaton
Rachel Pierson
Another participant, 59-year-old Francisco, said he arrived in the United States from Guatemala at age 21 and had spent more than 35 years living here.
“I feel great right now because of my citizenship. And it’s not only for me, my whole family too,” he said.
Deb Brown with the League of Women Voters was on hand to provide voting resources and help the new citizens prepare to participate in the election.
“Once they present their naturalization papers, they are welcome to register to vote and then to vote tomorrow,” Brown said. “There were several people that were very surprised that they could register and vote tomorrow, so that was exciting.”
