2024 Election: Millions of first-time voters head to the polls
MILWAUKEE - Wisconsin holds ten electoral votes. Among the thousands of people headed to the polls will be new citizens.
For Maria Torres and Roselia Navarro, this year's presidential election is one for the books.
SIGN UP TODAY: Get daily headlines, breaking news emails from FOX6 News
"I feel happy because I will be voting for the first time," said Maria Torres, a first-time voter.
"This will be my first time voting and I'm actually the first voter in my family," said Roselia Navarro, a first-time voter.
Maria Torres
Voting is a civic duty both women will take part in after recently becoming U.S. citizens.
"What motivated you to pursue your citizenship?" asked FOX6's Abril Preciado.
FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX6 News app for iOS or Android
"It was to be able to vote because if I voted I feel like it would be like representing my family and it was for my little girls too," Navarro answered.
"I did it to have my voice heard in this nation," Torres replied.
They are not alone. According to the Immigration Policy Center, an estimated 3.5 million adults have become U.S. citizens since the 2020 election – spanning from different countries of origin like Mexico, India, Philippines and many more.
Navarro, who is also a supervisor at the New American Program at Voces De La Frontera, said it has been a busy season.
Roselia Navarro
"This year itself maybe about 35 to 40 graduates and that is not even including the students that we are currently have right now," Navarro said. "I think currently attending would be like 60-65 students at least."
Those include Torres, who became a citizen at the age of 71. She and others are keeping the following in mind.
2024 election: Milwaukee early voting begins Oct. 22; what you need to know
Early voting begins Tuesday, Oct. 22 in Milwaukee for the 2024 fall general election on Nov. 5.
"For the wellbeing of every family, our community, that those that come to this country seeking a better future," Torres said.
"It would be somebody that is fair, with everyone. That see's us as equal. I feel like that is very important," Navarro said.