¡MANTENGAMOS EL ESTADO DE NEW JERSEY AZUL! ELIJA DEMÓCRATAS PARA GOBERNADOR, VICE GOBERNADOR, SENADO ESTATAL, Y ASAMBLEA ESTATAL

Contamos con usted para mantener al estada de New Jersey azul ¡este otoño! Las elecciones del estado de New Jersey para Gobernador, Vice Gobernador, Senado Estatal y Asamblea Estatal tomarán lugar el 2 de Noviembre, 2021

1) Llene su boleta y mándela por correo electrónico (opción recomendada) o FAX de inmediato (y después por correo regular)

Cuándo reciba su boleta complétela y devuélvala de inmediato. Su boleta debe ser recibida en New Jersey a más tardar el 2 de noviembre 8 P.M. hora de este.

Usted puede devolver su boleta por correo electrónico (opción recomendada) o fax para que llegue para la fecha límite, pero también debe enviar la boleta original firmada por correo.

Puede verificar el estado de su boleta online en: nj.gov/state/elections/vote-track-my-ballot

O, envíe un correo electrónico o llame a su oficina local de elecciones. Puede encontrar la información de contacto aquí: www.votefromabroad.org/es/states/NJ; desplazase hasta "Funcionarios Electorales". 

2) Si aún no tiene su boleta devuelva su Boleta de Respaldo por correo electrónico.

Si no ha recibido su boleta recomendamos que devuelva su Boleta de Respaldo (Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot o FWAB por sus siglas en ingles) por correo electrónico. Es solamente para votantes en el extranjero y protege su derecho de votar en caso de qué su boleta oficial no haya llegado a tiempo. Para información detallada de como usar la Boleta de Respaldo por favor visite www.votefromabroad.org/es/fwab.

Para usar la Boleta de Respaldo para las elecciones en el estado de New Jersey por favor recuerde que usted indicará sus opciones en el la sección llamada “Write in Candidates” (Candidatos por escrito). Si usted no sabe el nombre de su candidato puede escribir “Democrat” (Demócrata).

Hay cuatro oficinas en la boleta para esta elección: Gobernador, Vice Gobernador, Senado Estatal y Asamblea Estatal:

3) Confirme que su boleta fue aceptada

Asegúrese que su voto sea contado. Por favor confirme que su boleta fue recibida y aceptada.

Verifique el estado de su boleta online usando esta página: nj.gov/state/elections/vote-track-my-ballot

O, envíe un correo electrónico o llame a su oficina local de elecciones. Puede encontrar la información de contacto aquí: www.votefromabroad.org/es/states/NJ; desplazase hasta "Funcionarios Electorales". 

Devuelva su boleta lo más pronto posible, de esa manera si hay algún problema tiene suficiente tiempo para arreglarlo.

¿ Usted no puede votar en las elecciones estatales de New Jersey debido a su categoría de voto? ¡Usted puede ayudar a cambiar eso!

Muchos votantes del estado que viven en el extranjero han perdido su derecho a votar después de qué Chris Christie propuso una ley que le quito el derecho al voto en el 2017 a las votantes que decían que su retorno era incierto. 

Un grupo de miembros de Democrats Abroad que votan en New Jersey han trabajado con líderes del estado en la legislatura de New Jersey para cambiar la ley. En el 2021 los Asambleístas Downey y Mukherji y el Senador Vin Gopal introdujeron un proyecto de ley - NJ A5306/S3761 - para revertir la ley y devolverle el derecho al voto a los votantes en el extranjero.

Gracias a los esfuerzos de los miembros de Democrats Abroad, cómo usted, ¡el proyecto de ley pasó la Asamblea este verano! Ahora necesitamos su ayuda para que pase en el Senado del Estado. Por favor contacte a su senador estatal y pídale que sea co-patrocinador de este proyecto de ley. Visite demsabroad.org/NJsen para conseguir información de contacto y puntos de conversación. ¡Gracias por hacer que su voz se escuche!

¿Necesita ayuda? Mándenos un correo electrónico a: [email protected]

We are in the throes of the 2021 election season, and we wanted to keep you informed of some of the voter protection issues that could crop up, to be aware of and to share with other Americans abroad.

Signature matching
Apart from ballots not arriving on time to be counted, signature matching is the second most common issue which stops ballots being counted. If a voter has concerns or is unsure about the signature being held on file for them, they should contact their local election officer (LEO) to check for potential issues now. 

Misinformation
Misinformation is common, and LEO’s can give the wrong information to voters from abroad. If you have an issue that you’re concerned about, do check that you’ve been given the correct info by contacting the DA Voter Protection Team ([email protected]) to get up to date info on the UOCAVA laws that protect your vote from abroad.

Voter Roll Purges
If a voter has been purged or is unable to verify they are registered to vote, they should send in a new FPCA now to re-register, even if the deadline has passed, so they are registered for other upcoming elections. This is important particularly for Florida voters who had wanted to vote in the special primary election in FL’s 20th Congressional District 20, as this will ensure they are eligible to vote in the special general election on January 11, 2022.

Geoblocking 
Geoblocking (voter information websites being blocked to foreign IP addresses).
Using a VPN often helps like the Opera browser (www.opera.com). If necessary, voters should also contact their LEO to help establish an appropriate workaround. We urge anyone encountering geoblocking to also contact the DA Voter Protection Team so that we can raise it with relevant bodies further up the chain (state voter protection teams, DNC, Board of Elections, FVAP). 

Nixie Issue (election materials marked ‘return to sender’)
In some cases, election materials going through the NY International Service Center for inbound international mail are being returned to voters marked ‘return to sender’ with a label which says ‘Nixie’ printed on it. Voters should use email or fax wherever possible to send their ballots. If required to return ballots by mail, do so as early as possible and if it is returned to sender, vote a new ballot by FWAB and use a courier as a workaround. We urge anyone dealing with a Nixie issue to contact the DA Voter Protection Team.

Other Issues 
The above are just some of the issues that may be encountered. Others may be election materials and ballots being held up in customs or problems with social security numbers. If you or someone you know is experiencing these or anything else stopping them from voting their ballots, please write to [email protected]. During the 2020 elections, we handled over 500 cases, helping voters abroad to successfully cast their ballots. Most importantly, don’t delay in seeking help if you’re experiencing a problem and always check for confirmation that your voted ballots have been received by the LEO. Voter protection issues usually crop up unexpectedly and addressing them at the last minute risks missing the election deadline. Let’s help ensure that ALL votes are counted in 2021!

Many thanks and happy voting!

Maya Buchanan & Martha McDevitt-Pugh
2021 Voter Protection Team Leads

Keep Virginia Blue! Turn Out to Elect Democrats for Governor, Lt. Governor, Attorney General, and State House of Delegates

Virginia has made remarkable progress under a Democratic governor and legislature -- and now we’re counting on you to help keep Virginia blue this fall! Virginia state elections for Governor, Lt. Governor, Attorney General, and House of Delegates take place on November 2, 2021.

-- Many Overseas Voter Are Eligible to Vote

• If you “intend to return”, you may vote in Virginia state elections.
  *Please note: Selecting “intend to return” may contribute towards establishing yourself as a tax resident in Virginia. Because the legal requirements to establish “residence” or “domicile” for tax purposes are determined by state law and the specific facts of your life, before you note that you intend to return on your form, you may consider seeking advice on these matters from a tax professional.  
  
  
• If your “return is uncertain”, you may vote in Virginia state elections IF you provide the name of an employer for yourself or your spouse or your parent (if you are a dependent).
  Votefromabroad.org will prompt you where to provide this information.
  
  
• If you’ve “never resided” in Virginia, or if your return is uncertain and you cannot provide an employer's name, you will not be able to vote in this state election.
  But you will be eligible to vote in the November 2022 federal elections for U.S. House of Representatives.
  
  

-- It's Easy to Request Your Ballot, But Don't Delay--Deadlines are Coming

Go to www.votefromabroad.org and follow the prompts to fill out the form to request your ballot, the Federal Post Card Application form (FPCA). The FPCA will also register you to vote if needed. To ensure you receive your ballot in time, please check the box on the FPCA to have your blank ballot sent to you by “Email/Online” or “Fax”.

You can send in your FPCA to your local election office in Virginia by email (recommended), or fax, or mail.

• IF you are NOT registered to vote and are a military voter or eligible family member, your FPCA must be received by Nov 2, 2021, 7pm Eastern.

2) Fill Out Your Ballot and Mail It Back Right Away

When you get your ballot, fill it out and return it right away. You must mail back your ballot, so you'll want to give yourself plenty of time.

Your ballot must be postmarked by Nov 2, 2021, 7pm AND received by Nov 5, 2021, 12pm Eastern

**REMEMBER: You Must Have a Witness Sign Your Ballot! **

3) If You Don't Have Your Ballot Yet, Mail In a Backup Ballot Now

If you haven't received your ballot yet, we recommend you mail in a Backup Ballot (the Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot, or FWAB). It’s only for overseas voters and protects your right to vote in case your official ballot doesn't arrive in time. For detailed information how to use the Backup Ballot, please go to www.votefromabroad.org/fwab

To use the Backup Ballot for the Virginia State elections, please remember:

• If you indicate your "return is uncertain," include the employer's name for yourself, your spouse, or (if you're a dependent) your parent. It will be on the "Additional Information" screen and look like this:

• You will indicate your choices on the "Write in Candidates" block. If you don't know a candidate's name, you can just write in "Democrat." There are 4 offices on the ballot for this election--Governor, Lt. Governor, Attorney General, and your representative to the VA House of Delegates:

• Finally, when you print out your Backup Ballot materials, remember you MUST have your witness sign on the "Voter Information"page--in Block 6! (The instructions fail to include this requirement). It should look like this:

4) Confirm That Your Ballot Was Accepted

Make sure your vote is counted. Please confirm that your ballot was received and accepted.

Check your ballot status online using this website: https://vote.elections.virginia.gov/VoterInformation/Lookup/status

Or, email or call your local election office. You can find the contact information at: www.votefromabroad.org/states/va; scroll down to "Find Your Election Office"

Send in your ballot as early as possible to allow time to fix any problems!

NEED HELP? EMAIL US AT [email protected]

US Overseas Registered Voter Engagement Program

As the official overseas arm of the Democratic Party of the United States, Democrats Abroad sends occasional communications to US voters who live or work outside the territorial US. This is part of our mission to maintain political engagement with US voters. To enable us to contact US voters who are not members of Democrats Abroad, we receive personal data from the constituent committee of the Democratic Party in, or the local election officials of, the US state, district or territory where the voter is registered. Data we receive for this purpose consists of information previously disclosed by the US voter to US local election officials. The data we receive this way is normally limited to the voter’s name, overseas address, and registered voting address in the US. We supply some of this data to our constituent Country Committees so they can facilitate making contact with voters resident in that country. Democrats Abroad uses this data only for purposes of political engagement and we delete this data at intervals of not more than four (4) years. You can find our contact details and details of our privacy policies here: https://www.democratsabroad.org/privacy  [v.1.2.VA15092021]

¡MANTENGAMOS EL ESTADO DE VIRGINIA AZUL! ELIJA DEMÓCRATAS PARA GOBERNADOR, VICE GOBERNADOR, PROCURADOR GENERAL, Y CASA ESTATAL DE DELEGADOS

Virginia tiene gobernador y legislatura Demócrata- ¡y ahora contamos con usted para mantener al estado de Virginia azul este otoño! Las elecciones del estado de Virginia para Gobernador, Vice Gobernador, Procurador General, y Casa de Delegados tomara lugar el 2 de Noviembre, 2021.

—Muchos Votantes en el extranjero son Elegibles para Votar

• Si usted tiene “intend to return” (intenciones de volver), usted puede votar en las elecciones de Virginia 

*Por favor tenga en cuenta: Seleccionar “intend to return” (intenciones de volver) puede contribuir a establecerlo como residente que paga impuestos en Virginia. Debido a que los requisitos legales para establecer “residence” (residencia) o “domicile” (domicilio) para propósitos de impuestos son determinados por ley estatal y detalles específicos de su vida, antes de marcar que tiene intenciones de volver en su formulario, usted debería pedir consejo a un profesional de impuestos.

• Si su “return is uncertain” (retorno es incierto), usted puede votar en las elecciones estatales de Virginia SI provee el nombre de su empleador o el de su pareja o de su padre (si usted es dependiente)
  Votefromabroad.org le va a indicar donde proveer esta información
  
  
• Si usted “never resided” (nunca vivió) en Virginia, o si  su retorno es incierto Y no puede proveer el nombre de un empleador, usted no podrá votar en esta elección estatal.
  Pero si será elegible para votar en Noviembre de 2022 en las elecciones federales para U.S. House of Representatives (Casa de Representantes de los Estados Unidos).

-- Es Fácil Pedir su BOLETA, Pero No Espere — La fecha Límite se Aproxima

Visite www.votefromabroad.org/es y siga las indicaciones para llenar el formulario “Federal Post Card Application” (FPCA) y pedir su boleta. El FPCA también lo registrará para votar si es necesario. Para asegurar que su boleta llegue a tiempo, por favor marque la caja en el formulario FPCA “Email/Online” o “Fax” para recibir su boleta por correo electrónico o fax.

Puede enviar su FPCA a su oficina local de elecciones en Virginia por correo electrónico (recomendado), fax o correo regular.

• Si usted NO está registrado para votar y es militar o un familiar elegible su FPCA debe ser recibido a más tardar el 12 de Noviembre 2021 a las 7 P.M. hora del este de los Estados Unidos.

2) Complete su boleta y devuélvala por correo de inmediato

Las boletas serán enviadas comenzando el 18 de Septiembre (45 días antes de la elección). Marque su calendario y espérenlas; asegúrense que no hayan ido a su correo SPAM o cualquier otro correo que no sea su correo principal.

Cuándo reciba su boleta completela y retórnela enseguida. Tiene que enviar su boleta por correo regular así que debe darse suficiente tiempo para hacerlo.

Su boleta debe estar marcada por el correo el 2 de Noviembre 2021 a las 7 P.M. y tiene que ser recibida para el 5 de Noviembre 2021 a las 12 P.M. hora del este de los Estados Unidos.

**RECORDATORIO: Debe hacer que un testigo firme su boleta.**

3) Si aún no tiene su boleta devuelva su Boleta de Respaldo por correo ahora.

Si no ha recibido su boleta recomendamos que devuelva su Boleta de Respaldo (Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot o FWAB por sus siglas en ingles) por correo. Es solamente para votantes en el extranjero y protege su derecho de votar en caso de qué su boleta oficial no haya llegado a tiempo. Para información detallada de como usar la Boleta de Respaldo por favor visite www.votefromabroad.org/es/fwab.

Para usar la Boleta de Respaldo para las elecciones en el estado de Virginia por favor recuerde que:

• Si usted indica que su retorno es incierto (“return is uncertain”) incluya el nombre de su empleador, el de su esposo/a, o si usted es un dependiente el de su padre. Esta información se encuentra en la sección “Additional Information” (Información adicional) y se ve así:

• Usted indicará sus opciones en el la sección llamada “Write in Candidates” (Candidatos por escrito). Si usted no sabe el nombre de su candidato puede escribir “Democrat” (Demócrata). Hay cuatro oficinas en la boleta para esta elección: Gobernador, Vice Gobernador, Procurador General y su representante a la Casa de Delegados del estado de Virginia: 

• Finalmente, cuando imprima su Boleta de Respaldo y los materiales adjuntos, recuerde que debe hacer que su testigo firme en la sección “Voter Information” (Información de votante)en el Bloque # 6. (Las instrucciones no dicen de este requisito.) Se debe ver así:

4) Confirme que su boleta fue aceptada.

Asegúrese que su voto sea contado. Por favor confirme que su boleta fue recibida y aceptada.

Verifique el estado de su boleta en línea usando esta página: http://vote.elections.virginia.gov/VoterInformation/Lookup/status

O, envíe un correo electrónico o llame a su oficina local de elecciones. Puede encontrar la información de contacto aquí: www.votefromabroad.org/es/states/VA; desplazase hasta "Funcionarios Electorales". 

Devuelva su boleta lo más pronto posible, de esa manera si hay algún problema tiene suficiente tiempo para arreglarlo.

¿Necesita ayuda? Mándenos un correo electrónico a:  [email protected]

OHIO HAS TWO SPECIAL ELECTIONS FOR SEATS IN THE US HOUSE--LET'S ADD ANOTHER DEMOCRAT TO CONGRESS!

There's a special election in Ohio's 11th Congressional District to replace Democrat Marcia Fudge, who resigned her seat to serve as Secretary of Housing & Urban Development.

And there's another special election in Ohio's 15th Congressional District to replace Republican Steve Stivers, who resigned his seat to become President of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce.

All overseas voters with a voting address in either Ohio's 11th District or in Ohio's 15th District can vote in one of these elections. To find your Congressional District, enter your voting address here: www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative

1) Request Your Ballot TODAY

It's Easy to Request Your Ballot, But Don't Delay--Deadlines are Coming

Go to www.votefromabroad.org and follow the prompts to fill out the form to request your ballot, the Federal Post Card Application form (FPCA). To ensure you receive your ballot in time, please check the box on the FPCA to have your blank ballot sent to you by “Email/Online” or “Fax”.

You can send in your FPCA to your local election office in Ohio by email (recommended), or fax, or mail.

ALL VOTERS: If you are registered to vote, you MUST still send in an FPCA to request your ballot in 2021 to vote in this election. Your FPCA must be received by Oct 30, 2021, 12 Noon (Ohio time).

2) Fill Out Your Ballot and Mail It Back Right Away

You should get your ballot a few days after you send in your FPCA. If you asked for your ballot by email, be sure to check your spam folder and any secondary inboxes.

When you get your ballot, fill it out and return it right away. You must mail back your ballot, so you'll want to give yourself plenty of time.

Your ballot must be postmarked by Nov 1 AND received by Nov 12, 2021.

Special Rule: If you send in your ballot using a courier service, it must be received by Nov 2, 2021 at 7:30 pm (Ohio time).

3) If You Don't Have Your Ballot Yet, You Can Mail In a Backup Ballot Now

If you haven't received your ballot yet, we recommend you mail in a Backup Ballot (the Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot, or FWAB). It’s only for overseas voters and protects your right to vote in case your official ballot doesn't arrive in time.

For detailed information how to use the Backup Ballot, please go to www.votefromabroad.org/fwab

4) Confirm That Your Ballot Was Accepted

Make sure your vote is counted. Please confirm that your ballot was received and accepted.

Check your ballot status online using this website: http://usoav.ohiosos.gov/UOCAVA_vr__Login

Or, email or call your local election office. You can find the contact information at: www.votefromabroad.org/states/oh; scroll down to "Find Your Election Office"

Send in your ballot as early as possible so if there's any problem, you'll have time to fix it.

NEED HELP? EMAIL US AT [email protected]

OHIO TIENE DOS ELECCIONES ESPECIALES PARA DIPUTADOS EN LA CASA DE REPRESENTANTES—¡AGREGUEMOS OTRO DEMOCRATA AL CONGRESO!

Hay una elección especial en el Distrito # 11 del Congreso del estado de Ohio para reemplazar a la demócrata Marcia Fudge que dejó su asiento para ir a servir como Secretaria de Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano.

También hay otra elección especial en el distrito del congreso # 15 del estado de Ohio para reemplazar al republicano Steve Stivers que renunció su asiento para convertirse en el Presidente del de la Cámara de Comercio de Ohio. 

Todos los votantes en el extranjero con una dirección en el estado de Ohio en el distrito 11 o en el distrito 15 pueden votar en una de estas elecciones. Para encontrar su Distrito de Congreso ponga su dirección de voto aquí: www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative

1) Pida su Boleta HOY

Es Fácil Pedir su BOLETA, Pero No Espere — La fecha Límite se Aproxima

Visite www.votefromabroad.org/es y siga las indicaciones para llenar el formulario Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) y pedir su boleta. Para asegurar que su boleta llegue a tiempo, por favor marque en el formulario FPCA la casilla “Email/Online” o “Fax” para recibir su boleta por correo electrónico o fax.

Puede enviar su FPCA a su oficina local de elecciones en Ohio por correo electrónico (recomendado), fax o correo regular.

A TODOS LOS VOTANTES: Si usted está registrado para votar AÚN tiene que enviar su FPCA para pedir su boleta en el 2021 y votar en esta elección.  Su FPCA debe ser recibido a más tardar el 30 de Octubre 2021 a las 12 P.M. hora de Ohio .

2) Complete su boleta y devuélvala por correo de inmediato

Las boletas ya están disponibles, usted debe recibir la suya unos pocos días después de mandar su FPCA. Si usted pidió su boleta por correo electrónico por favor verifique en su carpeta de correo no deseado (“Spam”) y cualquier otra bandeja de entrada secundaria.

Cuando reciba su boleta complétela y devuélvala de inmediato. Debe devolver su boleta por correo así que debe darse suficiente tiempo para hacerlo.

Su boleta debe ser marcada por el correo el 1 de NOVIEMBRE y recibida para el 12 de NOVIEMBRE de 2021.

Regla especial: Si usted manda su boleta por un servicio especial de envío tiene que ser recibida el 2 de Noviembre 2021 a las 7:30 P.M. hora de Ohio.

3) Si aún no tiene su boleta devuelva su Boleta de Respaldo por correo ahora.

Si no ha recibido su boleta recomendamos que devuelva su Boleta de Respaldo (Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot o FWAB por sus siglas en ingles) por correo. Es solamente para votantes en el extranjero y protege su derecho de votar en caso de qué su boleta oficial no haya llegado a tiempo.

Para información detallada de como usar la Boleta de Respaldo por favor visite www.votefromabroad.org/es/fwab.

4) Confirme que su boleta fue aceptada

Asegúrese que su voto sea contado. Por favor confirme que su boleta fue recibida y aceptada.

Verifique el estado de su boleta en línea usando esta página web: https://usoav.ohiosos.gov/UOCAVA_vr__Login.aspx

O mande un correo electrónico o llame a su oficina local de elecciones. Puede encontrar la información de contacto aquí:. www.votefromabroad.org/es/states/oh; desplácese hasta "Funcionarios Electorales”.

Devuelva su boleta lo más pronto posible, de esa manera si hay algún problema tiene suficiente tiempo para arreglarlo.

¿NECESITA MÁS AYUDA? MÁNDENOS UN CORREO ELECTRÓNICO A: [email protected]

Democrats Need to Turn Out & VOTE "NO" -- Don't Let Republicans Take the California Governor's Office

Democrats must turn out to vote AGAINST the recall of current California Governor Gavin Newsom (D)! If this recall succeeds, Republicans will remove Newsom, who won in 2018 with nearly 62% of the vote, and replace him with a Republican.

Democrats can't afford to be complacent in this election. Republicans are highly motivated and even in a deep blue state like California, recent polls indicate that likely voters are now evenly split. Think of the damage a Republican Governor could do in California and beyond. We cannot sit on our hands and allow Republicans to take the Governor's office.

  1)  FILL OUT YOUR RECALL BALLOT TODAY!

Ballots went out to all California voters on July 31--either via email or postal mail depending on the preference you indicated. If you haven't seen your ballot yet, check your spam folder and secondary inboxes.

Here's what the ballot looks like--Stop the Recall by Voting NO!

**Special Note to Voters in Counties That Require a California Driver's License to Access Your Ballot**

We're hearing that the ballot access link for some counties, such as Alameda, require voters to provide a California Driver's License.
Don't worry--you can get your ballot even without a Calif Driver's License! According to Calif election officials:

IF YOU DON'T HAVE A CALIFORNIA DRIVER'S LICENSE, ENTER THIS NUMBER INSTEAD: A1234567.

IMPORTANT: If you didn't get your ballot, you may be able to vote, but time is running short, so don't delay!

First, confirm that you're on the voter rolls and your ballot was sent out to you. You can check online using this website: https://california.ballottrax.net/voter  Or, email or call your local election office. You can find the contact information at: www.votefromabroad.org/states/ca; scroll down to "Find Your Election Office"

Then, ask your local election office to email you a new one. It's the same contact information--just go www.votefromabroad.org/states/ca; scroll down to "Find Your Election Office"

Alternatively, many counties have ballots available for download, known as the Remote Accessible Ballot By Mail ("RAVBM"). RAVBMs were originally set up for voters with disabilities, but are available for all voters in 2021.

• The link for Los Angeles County's downloadable RAVBM is: https://ravbm.lavote.net
  
  
• The link for San Francisco County's downloadable RAVBM is: https://sfelections.org/tools/ravbm
  
  
• If you vote in another county, you can find out if it has RAVBM ballots available for download by searching for "[name of your county] RAVBM"

Finally, if you have trouble getting in touch with your local election office or cannot download a ballot, you can also vote using a Backup Ballot (the Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot, or FWAB). It’s only for overseas voters and protects your right to vote. For detailed information how to use the Backup Ballot, please go to www.votefromabroad.org/fwab

The Backup Ballot isn't set up for an unusual election like the Governor Recall election, but in the "Write in Candidates" section, you can indicate "Governor Recall Election" and "NO"  Here's an example:

Then send in your Backup Ballot by fax or mail, just like the official ballot.

  2)  RETURN YOUR BALLOT TO YOUR LOCAL ELECTION OFFICE IN CALIFORNIA--DON'T WAIT, DO IT NOW!

We recommend returning your ballot by FAX. If you return it by fax, it must be received by September 14, 8:00 PM (California time).

Most people don't have a fax machine these days, but you can fax back your ballot using one of these methods:

1. Use a public fax machine (search for "fax machine near me");

2. Use an email-to-fax service (search for online services or a fax app for your phone);

3. Use the email-to-fax service through the Federal Voting Assistance Program (www.FVAP.gov).

For more ideas on how to return your ballot by fax, go to www.votefromabroad.org/how-to-return-your-ballot (under "How to Return Your Ballot Electronically").

You can also return your ballot by postal mail, but be careful of the deadlines. If you return your ballot by postal mail, it must be Postmarked by September 14 AND Received in California September 21.

  3) CONFIRM THAT YOUR BALLOT WAS ACCEPTED AND WILL BE COUNTED

Make sure your vote is counted. Please make sure your ballot was received and accepted.

Track your ballot online using this website: https://california.ballottrax.net/voter

Or, email or call your local election office. You can find the contact information at: www.votefromabroad.org/states/ca; scroll down to "Find Your Election Office"

NEED HELP? EMAIL US AT [email protected]

2021 is considered an "off-year" for elections, but there are still major elections happening in:

California, New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, and Florida

To register to vote and/or request your ballot for 2021, go to www.votefromabroad.org

1. CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR RECALL ELECTION - SEPTEMBER 14, 2021
Special election to determine if Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom should be recalled. And, if he is recalled, who should be his successor.

Who can vote: All overseas California voters who are registered to vote by the deadline

Voters will be able to vote on two questions:

(1) Should Governor Newsom be recalled? Yes or No  -- we urge you to vote NO

2) In the event Gov Newsom is recalled, whom do you choose to succeed him as governor?
You must choose from the list of candidates on the ballot and Governor Newsom is not an option.

Important reminder to voters: Even if you vote NO on the recall, you should also vote for a Democrat to succeed Gov Newsom in the event the recall is successful.

Deadline to Register to Vote: May be sent in by Mail or Fax (Online submission available only with valid California state identification)

• Postmarked by: Aug 30, 2021 - If sent by Mail
  
  
• Received by: Aug 30, 2021 - If sent by Fax or submitted online (to use online registration you must have a Calif driver's license or ID)
  
  
• Conditional Registration: Available from Aug 31 to Sep 14 for voters who appear in person in California

Deadline to Request a Ballot: May be submitted by Email, Fax, or Mail (Online submission available only with valid California state identification)

• Not Required: Every California voter who is registered by the deadline will receive a ballot

*If you haven't voted in the last 4 general elections (that is, haven't voted since 2012), then you may not be considered a registered voter any more and you'll need to register to vote by the Aug 30 deadline.

Deadline to Return Ballot: May be returned by Mail or Fax

• Postmarked by Sept 14, 2021 AND Received by Sept 21, 2021 - if sent by Mail
  
  
• Received by Sept 14, 2021, 8pm - if sent by Fax

2. NEW JERSEY STATE ELECTIONS: GENERAL ELECTION - NOV 2, 2021
Offices on the ballot: Governor, Lt Governor, State Senate, and State Assembly

Who can vote: Overseas NJ voters who indicate that they "intend to return" to NJ

*Overseas NJ voters who indicate their "intention to return is uncertain" or that they have "never resided" in the US are eligible to vote in federal elections only and will not receive a ballot for NJ state elections

Deadline to Register to Vote: May be sent in by Email, Fax, or Mail

• Received by Oct 3, 2021 - If you request on your form that your ballot be sent to you by Mail
  
  
• Received by Oct 12, 2021 - If you request on your form that your ballot be sent to you by Email or Fax

Deadline to Request a Ballot: May be sent in by Email, Fax, or Mail or Fax
 *Even if you are registered to vote, you MUST send in a form to request your ballot in 2021 to vote in this election

• Received by Oct 3, 2021 - If you request on your form that your ballot be sent to you by Mail
  
  
• Received by Oct 29, 2021 - If you request on your form that your ballot be sent to you by Email or Fax

Deadline to Return Ballot: May be returned by Email, Fax, or Mail
 *If returned by Email or Fax, voter must also put original ballot in the mail at that time

• Received by Nov 2, 2021, 8pm

3. VIRGINIA STATE ELECTIONS: GENERAL ELECTION - NOV 2, 2021
Offices on the ballot: Governor, Lt. Governor, Attorney General, and State House of Delegates

Who can vote: Overseas VA voters who indicate that they "intend to return." Also, overseas VA voters who indicate their "intention to return is uncertain" if they provide the name of an employer for themselves, their spouse, or their parent (if a dependent).

*Overseas VA voters who indicate their "intention to return is uncertain" and do not have an employer, or that they have "never resided" in the US are eligible to vote in federal elections only and will not receive a ballot for VA state elections

Deadline to Register to Vote: May be sent in by Email, Fax, or Mail

• Received by Oct 12, 2021, 5pm - For civilian (non-military) overseas voters
  
  
• Received by Nov 2, 2021, 7pm - For military voters and their eligible family members

Deadline to Request a Ballot: May be sent in by Email, Fax, or Mail
 *Even if you are registered to vote, you MUST send in a form to request your ballot in 2021 to vote in this election

• Received by Oct 22, 2021, 5pm

Deadline to Return Ballot: Must be returned by Mail

• Postmarked by Nov 2, 2021, 7pm AND Received by Nov 5, 2021, 12 Noon

4. SPECIAL CONGRESSIONAL ELECTIONS: OHIO CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS 11 and 15
GENERAL ELECTIONS - NOV 2, 2021

OH-11 Special election to replace Democrat Marcia Fudge, who resigned her seat to serve as Secretary of Housing & Urban Development

OH-15 Special election to replace Republican Steve Stivers, who resigned his seat to become President of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce

Who can vote: All overseas voters with a voting address in either Ohio's 11th or 15th Congressional Districts
*To find your Congressional District, enter your voting address here: www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative

Deadline to Register to Vote: May be sent in by Email, Fax, or Mail

• Received by Oct 4, 2021

Deadline to Request a Ballot: May be sent in by Email, Fax, or Mail
*Even if you are registered to vote, you MUST send in a form to request your ballot in 2021 to vote in this election

• Received by Oct 30, 2021, 12 Noon
  
  

Deadline to Return Ballot: Must be returned by Mail
 *It's ok to use a private courier services, such as DHL or FedEx, but a different deadline applies:

• Postmarked by Nov 1, 2021 AND Received by Nov 12, 2021 - If returned by regular mail;
  
  
• Or, Received by Nov 2, 2021, 7:30pm - If returned by courier service

5. SPECIAL CONGRESSIONAL ELECTION: FLORIDA CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 20
PRIMARY ELECTION - NOV 2, 2021  [GENERAL ELECTION - JANUARY 11, 2022]

Special election to replace Democrat Alcee Hastings, who died on April 6, 2021

Who can vote: All overseas voters with a voting address in Florida's 20th Congressional District
*To find your Congressional District, enter your voting address here: www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative

Deadline to Register to Vote: Must be sent in by Mail (Online submission available only with valid Florida state identification)

• Postmarked by Oct 4, 2021 - If sent in by Mail
  
  
• Received by Oct 4, 2021 - If submitted online (to use online registration you must have a FL driver's license or ID) 

Deadline to Request a Ballot: May be sent in by Email, Fax, or Mail
*Even if you are registered to vote, you MUST send in a form to request your ballot in 2021 to vote in this election

• Received by Oct 23, 2021

Deadline to Return Ballot: May be returned by Fax or Mail

• Received by Nov 2, 2021, 7pm - If returned by Fax
  
  
• Postmarked by Nov 2, 2021 AND Received by Nov 12, 2021 - If returned by Mail

Interested in helping Democrats Jon Ossoff and Rev Raphael Warnock win election to the US Senate--and help Democrats gain control of the Senate?

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