Florida Civic Literacy Practice Exam

Which of the following is a right reserved for U.S. citizens only?

1. Voting in local elections

2. Running for federal office

3. Owning property

4. Accessing public education

The correct answer is: Running for federal office

Running for federal office is a right reserved exclusively for U.S. citizens, as outlined in the Constitution. Specifically, the U.S. Constitution sets forth eligibility requirements for federal offices such as the presidency and congressional positions that include being a natural-born citizen or a citizen of the United States. This distinction is crucial, as it underscores the importance of citizenship in holding high public office and participating fully in the governance of the nation. In contrast, voting in local elections, owning property, and accessing public education are rights and privileges that can be granted to non-citizens in various contexts, depending on local laws and regulations. For instance, many local jurisdictions allow legal residents to vote in certain local elections, and property ownership is typically not limited to citizens alone. Public education, likewise, is available to all individuals residing within a state regardless of their citizenship status, as public education systems in the U.S. are designed to serve all children. Therefore, running for federal office is uniquely tied to U.S. citizenship, setting it apart from the other options.