WASHINGTON – Today, Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and John Fetterman (D-PA) reintroduced the Fight for the American Dream Act, which allows participants of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program to serve in the United States military and provides them a pathway toward U.S. citizenship after their service.
The legislation also streamlines the military naturalization process by establishing a single pathway for immigrants who have honorably served our country to become citizens.
“I fought in Iraq, and I know that on the battlefield, what matters isn’t whether you have the right papers, it’s whether you’re willing to put on the uniform and risk your life for this country. And if you can do that, you should have the chance to earn citizenship,” said Senator Gallego. “This bill honors the DREAMers who want nothing more than to serve our nation in uniform while helping address our military’s recruitment challenges.”
“Growing up in the Rust Belt taught me that true loyalty is proven by your actions, not your paperwork. Dreamers have shown their dedication—going to school, raising families, and building businesses in our communities— and if they’re willing to put on the uniform and defend this country, they deserve a clear, fair path to citizenship. The Fight for the American Dream Act honors their sacrifice and makes our armed forces, and our nation, stronger,” said Senator Fetterman.
The U.S. military is facing a significant recruitment shortfall, with all service branches struggling to meet enlistment goals. At the same time, there are nearly 22,000 DACA recipients in Arizona alone. Allowing DACA recipients to enlist would recognize their commitment to our country and strengthen our armed forces.
Senator Gallego also introduced the bill as a member of the House. Companion legislation was introduced by Representatives Salud Carbajal (CA-24) and Gil Cisneros (CA-31).
Read the full text of the legislation HERE.
In May, Senator Gallego released a five-pillar framework to secure the Southwest border and enact lasting immigration reform, including by expanding pathways to citizenship for DREAMers and long-term undocumented residents who contribute to our communities.
7/30/25