Democrats Abroad Canada has launched Tell an American to Vote, a lively new podcast for anyone who can vote from abroad in American elections, and for those who know someone who can.

In the first episode, David Schellenberg and Rachel Eugster—chair and vice-chair of DA's Canada’s Capital Region chapter—tackle DA’s presidential primary and the role of DA members in ensuring that the candidates they favor will appear on the DA primary ballot. The deadline to be included on the ballot is January 6, with the primary itself following March 3-10.

“Over the next few episodes, we’ll be discussing issues and opportunities of interest to American citizens living in other countries,” says Schellenberg. Adds Eugster, “The intention is to anticipate questions and demystify the process of voting from abroad. We’re particularly interested in reaching those who have never exercised their right to vote.”

Tell an American to Vote can be heard at https://anchor.fm/demsabroadca.

We’ve changed our name!

Voting by ranked ballot among six options, DA members belonging to the local chapter formerly designated National Capital Region have elected to change its name to Canada's Capital Region. The previous name, Ottawa-Gatineau, ran a very close second.

"I think our members have chosen the best option," says the chapter's vice chair, Rachel Eugster. "National Capital Region was confusing for members in other countries, as it offers no information that places us in Canada. But the previous name, Ottawa-Gatineau, wasn't inclusive enough, as our members live anywhere from Kingston to Ste-Cécile-de-Masham in Quebec."

In a simultaneous vote, members also elected David Lehman as the new Volunteer/Membership Coordinator for the newly renamed chapter.