What is one promise made when becoming a United States citizen?

When becoming a United States citizen, one of the fundamental promises is to obey the laws of the United States. This commitment is foundational to citizenship, reflecting the expectation that citizens will respect and adhere to the laws that govern their community and nation. This promise emphasizes the importance of rule of law, which is a cornerstone of democracy and civic responsibility. By pledging to obey the laws, citizens agree to participate in the democratic process and contribute to the functioning and stability of society.

The other options, while important, do not capture the core promise made during the naturalization process. Serving in the military may be a duty in some circumstances but is not a standard requirement for all citizens. Paying taxes is indeed an obligation for citizens, yet it does not express a promise made during the naturalization process itself. Voting in every election is not a requirement for citizenship, as individuals have the right to choose when and if to participate in elections. Thus, the promise to obey the laws is central to the role of a citizen in maintaining a just and orderly society.