Voting is a privilege in the USA and we all know that it is what makes our country a true democracy. I age myself by stating the fact that the voting age changed while I was in university.
It was a momentous moment indeed. I have a clear memory of proudly casting my vote (despite the fact that my candidate did not win). My parents had a long talk with me about democracy (my father wrote his thesis in the Political Science arena) and both my parents, given the era of when they grew up, had first hand knowledge of freedom and democracy.
While living abroad, we knew our ballots counted, not as tie breakers, but as full fledged votes. We still felt empowered and perhaps more so than ever. Just understand that every ballot counts. Even if you are attending an international school and your student turns 18 before Election Day, your student can vote. While every election is important, some elections are more important than others. If this is your student’s first time to vote, it is a ‘wow’ moment in life- it is the first time when they are allowed to exert and express their political dynamic personally, because remember, our votes are private. Just keep in mind that US citizens abroad are affected by legislation in the US. It may not feel like it while living out of the US, but there is no question, US legislation is impactful no matter where we live.
HOW TO ENACT AN ABSENTEE BALLOT
Federal Postcard Application (FPCA)
Overseas voters can complete this to register and request their ballots.
On the website, you will find voter help sessions, specific state rules, and if you are a new voter- an explanation of what to do.
In general terms, you will need to have at hand, the state you last resided in, perhaps your registration in that state, a family address, a user ID- your driver’s license or the last four digits of your social security number, your current overseas address. The rest should be self explanatory on the website.
While some states allow for electronic returns, others have strict forms for mail in ballots only.
Wisconsin, South Dakota, Idaho and Florida require printing. Some counties in specific states require printed ballots, so check in your county. The FPCA has this on their website.
Here is the thing, snail mail from abroad can take a long time. We mailed postcards from the UK to our grandkids to the US. It took six weeks.
OTHER WEBSITES TO ASSIST WITH BALLOTS
Federal Voting Assistance Program
- Federal Government website for military and overseas voters.
- Works on a smartphone.
- Requires printing to sign and return by mail.
Overseas Vote Foundation
- Non profit organization.
- Works on a smartphone.
- Requires printing to sign and return by mail.
Your Vote Needs to Count.
Return your ballot on time.
Be sure you sign your ballot.
21 states requiring return by mail have the highest number of uncounted ballots .
Voting takes time and research. Have your student learn about the candidates before departing on their journey. Just remind them, we are privileged here in the US, they may learn about this privilege as they travel the world. Our votes count.