alternatehistory.com

Hi!

I was wondering: how would American history have developed if the Constitution allowed people born in foreign countries who have been American citizens for 35 or more years to run for the presidency? People born in the United States are automatically citizens and the 35-year period starts at birth (in effect, this makes the rule consistent with the current Constitution).

Would this open the presidency up appreciably enough so that different candidates would be elected at some point? How would things change?

Note 1: I don't know for certain, but I don't think Schwarzenegger would qualify (I doubt he's been a citizen for 35 years).
Note 2: In order for the 35-year period to even begin, the candidate must already be a citizen. If there are restrictions on citizenship that could interfere with his or her candidacy.

Thanks in advance,

ACG
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