Senator Bernie Moreno, a freshman Republican, has introduced legislation to formally designate English as the official language of the United States. The proposed legislation, titled the English Language Unity Act of 2025, aims to solidify English's role in US naturalization processes and legal interpretation.

This isn't the first time such a bill has been proposed. Similar efforts were made in 2023 by then-Senator JD Vance, who emphasized English's historical significance in American culture. Senator Moreno, originally from Colombia, echoed this sentiment, highlighting his own experience with naturalization as a testament to the language's importance in American life.

Bernie Moreno has introduced a bill to make English the official language of the United States. (Getty)

He stated that becoming a US citizen was the proudest moment of his life, underscoring the vital role of English in the American experience. He believes that legally establishing English as the official language is long overdue.

Although English is the most widely spoken language in the US, the nation is among the few without an official language. A 2021 Rasmussen poll revealed that a significant majority of American adults (73%) support making English the official language.

Moreno was sworn into the Senate on Jan. 3. (Reuters)

Despite some criticism labeling such initiatives as xenophobic, proponents like former Congressman Bob Good argue that the bill is essential for national unity and cultural integration. Good believes that English proficiency facilitates immigrants' assimilation, career success, and overall potential within American society.

New U.S. citizens listen as Secretary of State Antony Blinken delivers remarks during a naturalization ceremony on Oct. 19, 2022, in Philadelphia. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)