Here’s how you can get an Absentee Ballot if you’re not going to be home for the 2016 Primary Elections:
Firstly, make sure you know that your vote matters, so don’t let anything keep you from casting it. Life may be comfortable these days, but always remember that people fought hard and even sacrificed their lives for our right to vote.
Now, voting might seem mind-boggling at times and I can’t deny it – the dates for your state’s primaries differ based on whether you’re voting for the Democratic or Republican party. And yes, you’ve got to be registered under the party you wish to vote for, in most states. Do stay informed about these details for your home state.
However, in states like Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, and others – which hold open primaries – you can vote for any candidate, no matter your registered political party. On the flip side, remaining states have closed primaries, which allows you to vote only for the candidate within your registered party.
To tackle these voting complexities, specifically if you’re away from home, there’s help at hand. The website Long Distance Voter lets you quickly fill in some info and helps you get an absentee ballot registration form.
Remember, you MUST request the ballot at least two weeks before the primary election. Your request should reach the county clerk at least 7 days before the election. Also, the request form doesn’t count as your vote, it is only the first step to get your voting ballot.
As for receiving your ballot while on the move, plan your mail delivery ahead. Having it mailed to your hotel or to the theatre (if you’re an artist, performing) is feasible. Just add ‘care of Your Name’ and your arrival date in the address.
For example:
Holiday Inn, New Mexico
c/o Your Name, Arrival: 2/22/16
123 Hotel Street
Albuquerque, NM 12345
If you’re touring internationally or studying abroad, Overseas Vote Foundation can help you out with similar services. Do keep in mind to plan it much earlier when abroad.
In a nutshell:
1. Find out your home state’s primary election date (Takes about 30 seconds).
2. Next, go to Long Distance Voter to get an absentee ballot application (2 minutes).
3. Fill it out and mail it at least 7 days before your primary date (5 minutes).
4. Get your absentee ballot, fill it, and mail it back (another 5 minutes).
Lastly, make sure you’re registered to vote. If not, you can do that easily via Register to Vote.
Remember, be part of the change you wish to see. Vote and make your voice heard!