Who can participate in federal elections and run for federal office in the United States?

Only American citizens have the legal right to participate in federal elections and run for federal office in the United States. This is established by both the U.S. Constitution and various laws that govern citizenship and electoral participation. To be eligible to vote in federal elections, one must be a citizen, as voting is a right that is typically reserved for citizens who have a stake in the governance of the country.

While registered voters can participate in elections, not all registered voters are necessarily American citizens, as some states may allow non-citizens to register for certain local elections. However, federal law requires that to vote in federal elections, you must be an American citizen.

Permanent residents, while living in the U.S. legally and often contributing to society, do not have the same voting rights as citizens. Landownership is also not a requirement for participating in elections; thus, it does not define eligibility either. Therefore, American citizenship is the essential qualification for engaging in federal elections and holding federal office.