As an expert on voting rights, I am often asked about the rules and regulations surrounding voting rights in Denver, CO, especially for those living overseas. With the 2020 election approaching, it's important to understand the process for overseas residents to exercise their right to vote. Each state in the United States has its own laws and regulations regarding voting, and in Colorado, the Colorado Secretary of State is responsible for overseeing elections and ensuring that all eligible voters have the opportunity to cast their ballots. In order to vote in Colorado, you must meet certain requirements, including being a U. S.
citizen, at least 18 years old on Election Day, and a resident of Colorado for at least 22 days before the election. However, for those living overseas, residency requirements can be a bit more complicated.
Residency Requirements for Overseas Voters
If you are currently living overseas but maintain a residence in Denver, CO, you are still eligible to vote in Colorado. However, you must meet certain criteria as outlined by the Overseas Vote Foundation:- You are a member of the U. Armed Forces or a spouse or dependent of a member.
- You are a U.
citizen residing outside of the U. temporarily.
- You are a U. indefinitely.
How to Register to Vote as an Overseas Voter
Once you have determined that you are eligible to vote in Colorado as an overseas voter, you can register online through the Colorado Secretary of State's website.You will need to provide personal information, including your name, date of birth, and address in Denver, CO, as well as proof of your eligibility as an overseas voter. If you are unable to register online, you can also register by mail using a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA), which serves as both a voter registration form and an absentee ballot request form.
How to Vote as an Overseas Voter
Once registered, you will need to request an absentee ballot in order to cast your vote. This can also be done online through the Colorado Secretary of State's website. You will need to provide personal information and select how you would like to receive your ballot (mail or email).If you are unable to request your ballot online, you can also request it by mail using a Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB), which serves as a backup ballot in case your official ballot does not arrive in time.Important Deadlines for Overseas Voters
It's important to note that overseas voters have different deadlines than voters living in the United States. The deadline to register is eight days before the election, the deadline to request an absentee ballot is seven days before the election, and the deadline to return your absentee ballot is by 7:00 PM on Election Day.In Conclusion
If you are currently living overseas in Denver, CO, you are still eligible to vote in Colorado.However, it's important to stay informed and follow the specific procedures in order to exercise your right to vote. As an expert, I highly encourage all eligible voters, including those living overseas, to take advantage of their right to vote and make their voices heard in the upcoming election.
