David Jarrett (RDJ Group)

U.S. Citizens Can Vote from Namibia Living abroad allows us to experience new cultures, represent our country, and broaden our understanding of the world. But distance from American soil does not mean distance from American responsibility. As American citizens, no matter where we reside, we retain one of democracy’s most fundamental rights: the right to vote. With U.S. midterm elections approaching, I urge U.S. citizens to approach your ballot with the same care and diligence you bring to any important decision. Take time to review candidate platforms and perform thorough research. Candidates at every level — federal, state, and local — hold distinct positions on issues that affect American life at home and abroad. The process of voting from abroad requires equal diligence. Every state sets its own rules for absentee voting, so your first obligation is to know your home state requirements. The Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) exists to help you. FVAP’s extensive information about voting from abroad can be found at FVAP.gov. We encourage all U.S. citizens overseas to register and request your ballot as soon as possible. This ensures you are registered and gives state voting officials time to mail your ballot. Once your ballot arrives, do not delay.  Return it through a reliable local mail service or bring it directly to the U.S. embassy in Windhoek.  Whichever method you choose, account for mail delivery times carefully.  A ballot that arrives one day late is a ballot that does not count.  For more information on voting as a U.S. citizen abroad, visit FVAP.gov.