The Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) has issued a notice regarding difficulties faced by some overseas voters in accessing their state's online voter registration and election systems. This issue is attributed to states blocking web traffic from foreign countries to enhance cybersecurity.
With the General Election on November 6 approaching, FVAP advises overseas voters to return their completed ballots promptly. If access to state websites for voter registration or ballot retrieval is blocked, voters are encouraged to contact their state's election office for assistance. The FVAP website remains accessible globally and provides contact details for local election officials, voting deadlines for all states, and international toll-free numbers for support. Voters can also reach out via email at vote@fvap.gov.
For those who have requested but not received a state ballot or cannot download it due to access issues, FVAP recommends using the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB). This backup ballot is accepted by all states for federal offices. An interactive tool on the FVAP website assists voters in filling out the FWAB accurately by listing candidates based on the voter's registration address. Once completed, voters must print, sign, and send it following provided instructions.
If a state ballot arrives after submitting an FWAB, voters may still complete and return it; however, only one of the ballots will be counted if both meet the submission deadline.
FVAP continues collaborating with states to balance cybersecurity concerns with ensuring military personnel, their families, and overseas citizens have access to essential election information and processes.
For further information or assistance with absentee voting, visit FVAP.gov for live chat support or call 1-800-438-VOTE. Service members can also seek help from unit or installation voting assistance officers. Stay updated by liking FVAP's Facebook page or following @FVAP on Twitter.