Joni Mitchell has officially become an American citizen after living in the United States for decades. The Canadian-born singer revealed her decision just weeks before the 2026 midterm elections. Her announcement also explained why she finally pursued citizenship.
Joni Mitchell explains why she became a US citizen ahead of the 2026 midterm elections
The 82-year-old singer shared news of her citizenship on Instagram. She posted a photo standing beside American flags and a Department of Homeland Security flag. “A journey that began 62 years ago,” she captioned the image.
Mitchell later explained the motivation behind her decision. As per People, she said, “I became a citizen so I could vote.” Her announcement comes ahead of November’s midterm elections.
However, becoming an American citizen did not mean abandoning her Canadian roots. “I didn’t give up my Canadian citizenship, and I never will,” Mitchell clarified. She also described herself as “a proud Canerican like Neil Young.”
Young, another Canadian-born musician, became a U.S. citizen in 2020. Mitchell’s decision follows decades of living and working in America. The singer first arrived in the country during the 1960s with her then-husband, Chuck Mitchell.
After their separation, Mitchell moved to New York City. She later relocated to California, where she became associated with Los Angeles’ Laurel Canyon music scene. She now lives in Santa Barbara while maintaining strong ties to Canada.
Mitchell had previously spoken publicly about being unable to vote in U.S. elections. During a 2024 concert, she told the audience, “I wish I could vote.”
The singer has also publicly criticized Donald Trump. During the same concert, she responded to a remark about Trump before describing herself as one of the country’s “lousy immigrants.”
Her new citizenship means she can now vote in U.S. elections, including the 2026 midterms. Fellow musician Graham Nash also congratulated her on gaining voting rights.
