Getting to Know You … Again

Have you got a friend like that one of mine, the one who actually told me about Dems Abroad. And though every phone call would start with some snarl about the Republicans in office, I’ve never been able to persuade this one to vote. Born and raised in the US, they moved abroad, raised a family, and claim now to be a European. Period.

That’s an extreme case, though the number of Americans who vote from abroad far outnumber the other 80-90% who could. And that, too often, is only for President.

So, why don’t Americans abroad vote but once every four years? And why don’t those whose states allow it vote all the way down ballot to school board and township trustee?

The most often heard reason is the desire to do it right:  “I’ve fallen out of touch, haven’t been back in years. I wouldn’t even know who to vote for.” And it’s that one we hope to help correct.

Reaching out to activists in the home state can net a deeper understanding of issues. If online meet-ups fall in your time zone, even better. They’re energizing! 

In the meantime, the hometown newspaper is a great place to start. They supplement the national and big city news of the major dailies with solid reporting of local goings -on. And most of them are online. 

Last year, we discovered The Source, available in county editions for Richland, Ashland, Delaware and Knox counties. Credible reporting! And they’ve just taken on two new reporters, both Ohio University (Athens) grads. Here are their stories:

Nice to meet you, Richland County! I’m Logan Adams, your new Shelby/North County reporter 

Understanding the why: Welcome reporter Abby Hiday to the Ashland Source team

It’s a good place to start. Now go find yours!