San Francisco has selected a non-citizen to serve on its Elections Commission. Kelly Wong, an immigrant from Hong Kong, is believed to be the first non-citizen appointed to the city’s seven-member Elections Commission. Wong’s commissioner appointment was confirmed at a swearing-in ceremony held on Wednesday at San Francisco City Hall, conducted by Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin.
In an interview before her swearing-in ceremony, Wong stated her desire to help immigrants who don’t speak English navigate and participate in elections. “I’ve seen how language and cultural barriers prevent immigrants with limited English proficiency from fully exercising their right to vote,” said Wong. “Is there a way to do voter outreach that is not just about translation but can touch on political education while maintaining neutrality and impartiality in elections?”
San Francisco’s move to permit non-citizens on city boards, commissions, and advisory bodies follows a 2020 voter-approved measure that eliminated citizenship requirements. The city’s systems allow each of its seven members to be selected by different city officials, such as the mayor, city attorney, or district attorney. The Board of Supervisors unanimously endorsed Wong’s appointment.
Although non-citizens in San Francisco are authorized to vote in school board elections, questions remain about the separation between those registered for school board elections and those registered for all other elections.