Voting Requirements for Military Personnel
Although it's less than three weeks before the November 4 election, military personnel stationed away from their homes can still vote absentee and should contact their state and local boards of election to learn more about opportunities for early voting. For information about voting absentee, click here. Voting requirements vary from state to state, so it is crucial for you to have your questions answered as soon as possible. Some states even allow you to apply and vote by e-mail or fax.
Federal law guarantees that members of the armed forces who have requested an absentee ballot by their state's deadline and don't receive one close to Election Day can still vote through the back-up Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB). However, if you don't receive the ballot you requested by before Election Day, you should contact your local election official or the Federal Voting Assistance Program for assistance.
Throughout our nation's history, our brave men and women in uniform have fought and died to protect the right to vote. Originally a privilege only available to some, the right to vote has evolved into a great civic equalizer, allowing everyone - regardless of race, age, religion, gender, socioeconomic background or sexual orientation - to have a stake in determining who will represent the citizenry. Won through the sacrifices of service members and social pioneers alike, voting is an opportunity for Americans of diverse backgrounds to come together as one voice and make a difference in the direction our nation takes.
On November 4, we have the opportunity to exercise the freedom won for us through the service of men and women in the armed services, gay and straight alike. Americans of all backgrounds can honor the sacrifices of our brave patriots in uniform by being part of the election process and making history, one vote at a time.
10-16-08
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