Permanent residency is very much a thing allowed by law. Dismissing them as foreigners is a bit harsh, when some of them have been in the US longer (and legally) than anywhere else in their lives.
Isn't that contradictory? Why not require them to be a member of the club to influence the club?
>when some of them have been in the US longer (and legally) than anywhere else in their lives
And not electing to become a citizen.
There is a 150 year waiting list for someone from India who is here on a work visa to even get a green card much less citizenship.
The fastest route to citizenship for someone from India working here is:
1. Get pregnant
2. Wait nine months for your child to be born in the US
3. Wait 21 more years until they are old enough to sponsor someone for a green card (and don't forget to make sure that their income is high enough to support both themselves and you single-handedly)
4. Wait another year to actually get the green card
5. Wait five more years to qualify for citizenship