Washington:
Nine immigrants from various countries, including Lebanon, Germany, Taiwan and Mexico, took the oath to become American citizens during a scenic outdoor naturalization ceremony overlooking Los Angeles, with the iconic Hollywood sign as a backdrop.
As the US presidential election approaches, many of these new citizens are eager to exercise their right to vote, while some already know who they will support.
Chia Hsin Tsai, a 33-year-old marketing manager from Taiwan, is one of them. She has lived in the US for 11 years and applied for citizenship in March. “Being part of the country I live in makes me feel special,” she said, although she did not reveal who she will vote for.
Floriane Turcat, a 37-year-old French actress, was inspired by American films and TV shows. She is now registered to vote in California and plans to support Vice President Kamala Harris, citing concerns about women's rights and reproductive rights. She said, “I want to be part of the political movement of this country,” adding, “Even though California is a Democratic state, I want to be able to participate and have a voice and say it's important to me.” I want to stand up for my rights.”
Phoenix De Los Angeles Lopez Daal, a 31-year-old set designer from Venezuela, hopes to vote for former President Donald Trump. He believes that there should be freedom of speech, freedom of religion and the right to keep and bear arms.
Dennis Beier, a 46-year-old German film producer, wants to vote for Harris to protect democracy, especially after the January 6 attack on the US Capitol. Bavaria has always seen the US as a country of freedom and opportunity. “I just want to keep this whole democracy thing intact,” Beier said. “And people have to have respect when they lose, that's part of it, and if you can't do that, you shouldn't be in politics.”
The US presidential election is in full swing, with just a few days to go until November 5. Harris and Trump are neck and neck in a fiercely contested battle for the White House. These individuals, along with tens of millions of other Americans, will shape the country's future with their votes.
