Navigating the Complexities of Voting as an American Overseas

Each year, a significant number of Americans relocate overseas, drawn by reasons such as education, retirement, military service, or remote work opportunities. While the exact figure of American expatriates remains unclear, the U.S. State Department estimates around nine million citizens live abroad, with only a fraction participating in elections.

Election participation among overseas Americans was only 7.8% in 2020. Experts cite various factors contributing to this low turnout. Martha McDevitt-Pugh, chair of Democrats Abroad, suggested that feelings of apathy, lack of information, or questions about their voting legitimacy often deter expatriates.

McDevitt-Pugh emphasized that despite their physical absence from the U.S., expatriates are still affected by domestic policies. “It’s crucial that we reinforce our presence to our representatives,” she stated.

The implications of tax laws implemented during the Trump administration, for example, have seriously impacted many small business owners living overseas. Additionally, citizenship issues regarding children born abroad pose further challenges.

With closely contested elections, McDevitt-Pugh and others highlight the importance of expat votes. “We are Americans, and regardless of our location, our voices matter,” asserted Sharon Manita, press secretary for Democrats Abroad.

Manita identified two main obstacles for overseas voters: the need for re-registration for each election and the challenge of locating American voters abroad. Without a centralized tracking system, individual initiative is key.

Unlike domestic moves, where changing an address often triggers automatic re-registration prompts, relocating abroad complicates the voting process due to diverse foreign bureaucracies.

Political tensions at home can also discourage voting. Steve Manning’s move to Portugal after the 2020 election reflects this. He feels detached from a political climate increasingly marred by division and violence.

The climate of fear has escalated since the January 6 Capitol attacks, with many Americans seeking refuge abroad. Incidents of politically motivated violence have reinforced this sentiment, leading to a growing exodus.

Research indicates a troubling acceptance of political violence, with significant portions of the population justifying it based on partisan divides.

Yet, the challenges of absentee voting are not just emotional but practical. Barriers include logistical issues around mailing ballots and varying state requirements for ballots.

Recent changes to absentee ballot laws in states like Arizona and Georgia have tightened the voting process, complicating participation for those living abroad.

Difficulties are compounded in states such as Idaho, where proof of residency can be a hurdle for those who exchanged their U.S. driver’s licenses for local equivalents.

For expats, requirements like matching signatures on ballots can pose another potential barrier, as discrepancies could lead to ballot disqualification.

Despite these hurdles, the value of the overseas vote cannot be understated. States like Arizona and Georgia saw their election outcomes influenced by absentee ballots in 2020.

Marco Valadez, a naturalized citizen from Arizona, expresses commitment to voting. “People should not give up,” he advises, highlighting the importance of civic engagement.

Valadez, who has voted in every election since gaining citizenship, believes voting is an essential part of upholding democracy.

Absentee voting has historical roots dating back to the Civil War, catering primarily to military personnel and their families. Yet, turnout among expatriates remains lower than military counterparts.

With some states implementing electronic voting methods, the potential for increased participation looms. Advocates urge more states to adopt modernized voting procedures to engage a larger expatriate population.

Organizations such as Democrats Abroad and Republicans Overseas work to assist expats in navigating the voting process, offering resources and advocacy to increase electoral participation.

The Federal Voting Assistance Program also provides vital resources to facilitate voting for those overseas, ensuring they can understand their rights and options.

With millions of American expatriates globally, their potential influence in elections grows each year, making their participation even more critical.

Despite facing significant challenges, with adequate support and resources, overseas voters can assert their influence and remind their government that they are engaged citizens.