Warden Message, Number 25
Register to Vote NOW! American citizens should register to vote now for the November 4, 2008 presidential and general elections. Many states close voter registration 30 days before the general election. Don't forget the time it takes for voting forms to reach the U.S. by mail.
Voters who have not yet registered to vote and requested an absentee ballot should complete a Federal Postcard Application (FPCA) on the Federal Voting Assistance Program's website at www.fvap.gov.
You may also pick up a hard copy of the FPCA from any U.S. Embassy or Consulate. You should also complete a new Federal Postcard Application if you have moved or changed your name since the last time you voted.
FPCAs may be mailed to your local voting officials in the U.S. through the regular international mail or from any U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Some states also accept FPCAs by fax or e-mail.
Voting Your local voting officials should mail your absentee ballot 30 to 45 days before the November 4 general election to your overseas address. Return your voted ballot as early as possible. Be aware of your state's ballot receipt deadline, as well as any postmarking requirements. Emergency Ballots The Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB) serves as an emergency ballot for voters who registered in time but fail to receive an official ballot from local election officials. You can access the FWAB using www.fvap.gov as well.
Questions? The Voting Assistance Officer at the U.S. Embassy is also always available to answer questions about absentee voting. To contact the Voting Assistance Officer, call the U.S. Embassy in Harare (250-593 Ext 4081) or send an e-mail to consularharare@state.gov. Issued 10 September, 2008
