In a small Illinois town with a population just over 2,200, political expression and hope coexist amid economic and personal challenges. Amboy, located near Dixon, is marked by historical contributions such as the invention of duct tape and the founding of the Carson Pirie Scott department store chain. Despite early expectations that Amboy might become the county seat of Lee County, Dixon ultimately took that role.

Among Amboy’s residents is Brad Anderson, 61, who has lived on disability for 35 years following a spinal condition aggravated by physical labor at age 26. Reflecting on his experience with limited mobility and social isolation, Anderson described life on disability as “a piss-poor way to live” due to inactivity and boredom. Yet, in 2015, spurred by the announcement of Donald Trump’s presidential candidacy, Anderson and his father created a homemade political sign reading “Trump Evil Slayer,” using color codes to represent political affiliations. The sign, displayed prominently, frequently receives supportive reactions from passersby in the town. Anderson interprets local support for Trump as grounded in hope and concern for future generations, believing that many voters see the former president as a figure focused on safety and security. “Life goes on, better times are ahead,” he said, describing the sentiment in the community as one of tentative optimism.

Meanwhile, in downtown Chicago at the Dirksen federal courthouse, a different form of civic engagement unfolded during a naturalization ceremony presided over by U.S. District Judge LaShondra A. Hunt. The event, held in the Northern District of Illinois court, marked a rare gathering of 88 new citizens from 34 countries. Judge Hunt noted that prior to her appointment three years ago, naturalization ceremonies were frequent, with the courthouse admitting as many as 29,000 new citizens annually. That number has since declined sharply, with recent figures closer to 5,000 per year.

Rather than following the usual scripted remarks, Judge Hunt delivered a personal message emphasizing the difficulties inherent in the citizenship process—the financial costs, complex paperwork, emotional toll, and cultural separation involved. She acknowledged the sacrifices made by immigrants “left behind” and underscored the responsibility new citizens assume upon naturalization, including voting, jury service, and educating their children about citizenship. Recognizing the current “difficult moment” faced by the nation, Judge Hunt challenged the new citizens to reflect on how to navigate these times and uphold the values of American identity. The ceremony ended with many attendees visibly moved, some shedding tears as they prepared to take on their new roles within the country’s democratic framework.