Rep. Carson Seeks Answers on Canceled Naturalization Ceremonies
WASHINGTON, DC—This week, Congressman André Carson (IN-07) led 26 Members of Congress in seeking answers from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) about repeated cancelations of naturalization ceremonies.
In Indianapolis, USCIS canceled at least three naturalization ceremonies since July, citing a “lack of candidates.” But field offices report they have pending naturalization applications that are awaiting action from USCIS.
“Citizenship is a life-changing milestone, and people who have spent years following the law deserve a government that honors its commitments,” said Rep. Carson. “Canceling naturalization ceremonies without a clear explanation leaves families in Indianapolis in limbo and undermines trust in the process. These families deserve more than canceled ceremonies and unanswered questions. USCIS must explain these cancellations and ensure eligible applicants can take their oath without unreasonable delay. I will keep pressing this administration for answers and accountability.”
“We are concerned that lawful permanent residents are experiencing delays in the final stages of their naturalization across the country,” the lawmakers state in the letter. “Applicants who have spent years complying with immigration requirements should not face unexplained or unreasonable delays after becoming eligible for citizenship because of the political or ideological whims of a particular administration. These delays prevent lawful permanent residents from fully exercising the rights and responsibilities of citizenship, including voting, obtaining a U.S. passport, pursuing certain employment opportunities, and petitioning for family members. Congress has made it clear that the fair and timely processing of eligible citizenship applicants is a priority.”
Rep. Carson and his colleagues requested a response from USCIS by October 7, 2026, including the number of pending naturalization applications, how long those applications have been pending, and how many applicants have completed naturalization interviews but are still awaiting final decisions.
The full letter is HERE.
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