New Citizens' Election Plans: Voting to Shape Their New Home

In the heart of Los Angeles, nine recent immigrants from diverse backgrounds took the Oath of Allegiance, becoming American citizens just in time for the 2024 presidential election. These new citizens, hailing from countries like Taiwan, France, and Venezuela, share a common goal: to cast their votes and make their voices heard. Chia Hsin Tsai, a marketing manager from Taiwan, has lived in the U. S. for 11 years. She's excited to vote, though she's keeping her choice of candidate a secret. "Being able to vote makes me feel like a true part of this country, " she says. Her boyfriend, Eric, admires her dedication to becoming American. "She didn't just pass a test. She lived here, learned the U. S. inside out, " he explains. Floriane Turcat, a French actress living in L. A. , is eager to vote for Vice President Kamala Harris. She's been inspired by American movies since childhood and sees this election as a chance to stand up for women's rights. "I want to be part of the political scene, " she says. "I want my voice to count. "Phoenix De Los Angeles Lopez Daal, a set dresser from Venezuela, believes in American ideals like freedom of speech. He plans to vote for former President Donald Trump. "I don't want to see the U. S. go the way Venezuela did, " he says, expressing concern about the Democratic Party's shift. Dennis Beier, a film producer from Germany, is worried about the future of democracy after the Capitol attack. He's voting for Harris to protect the democratic process. "People need to respect the outcome, win or lose, " he says. He's happy to finally become a U. S. citizen and join his American children and Canadian wife. These new Americans are ready to exercise their new right to vote, each with their own reasons and hopes for the future of their adopted country.