Pew Research: The Growing Impact of Naturalized Citizens on the U.S. Electorate

In recent years, the United States has witnessed a significant shift in its voting demographic, with naturalized citizens playing an increasingly crucial role. A recent analysis by the Center (likely referring to the Pew Research Center) reveals some striking statistics about this growing segment of the American electorate.

A Record-Breaking Presence

As of 2022, naturalized citizens make up a record 10% of eligible voters in the United States. This translates to approximately 23.8 million people - a number that has grown by an impressive 32% in just a decade. To put this in perspective, the number of U.S.-born adults increased by only 8% during the same period.

The Path to Citizenship

The journey to becoming a naturalized citizen is not a short one. The vast majority (73%) of immigrant eligible voters have lived in the U.S. for more than 20 years. This reflects the lengthy process of obtaining citizenship, which typically requires at least five years of lawful permanent residency before one can even apply.

Geographic Distribution

While naturalized citizens are spread across the country, they are heavily concentrated in a few key states. Over half (55%) live in just four states: California, Florida, New York, and Texas. California alone is home to 5.6 million adult naturalized citizens, accounting for 23% of the national total.

Potential Impact on Elections

The distribution of naturalized citizens could have significant implications for future elections. In potential battleground states for the 2024 election, the proportion of eligible voters who are naturalized citizens varies widely. For instance, they make up 14% of eligible voters in Nevada, but only 3% in Wisconsin.

Diversity of Origins

The top countries of origin for adult naturalized citizens in the U.S. are Mexico, India, China, the Philippines, and Vietnam. This diversity is reflected in the racial and ethnic makeup of immigrant eligible voters, with Hispanic adults making up the largest share (34%), followed closely by Asian Americans (31%).

Demographic Distinctions

Compared to U.S.-born eligible voters, naturalized citizens tend to be older, slightly more educated, and have higher median family incomes. However, they also report lower levels of English proficiency, with 37% saying they speak English less than very well.

Looking Ahead

As the number of naturalized citizens continues to grow, their impact on the American political landscape is likely to increase. Politicians and policymakers would do well to pay attention to this diverse and growing segment of the electorate, understanding their unique experiences, perspectives, and needs.

This demographic shift represents yet another chapter in America's ongoing story as a nation of immigrants. As we move forward, the voices and votes of naturalized citizens will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of the United States.