No Excuses! Here’s how to vote absentee this November

By Danielle Collins ‘20

Did you know that less than 50% of all US college students voted in the 2016 elections? And that was for a presidential election. This year’s general election takes place on November 6th. And no matter where you’re from, you should be voting this November! No excuses!

I’ve already sent in my absentee ballot from Spain, so I promise you can do the same from wherever you are– whether it’s USC, or somewhere abroad. Here is the information you need to request your absentee ballot if you’re voting within the US (i.e. all of you at USC!).

First, go to this website for information on how to request absentee ballots in the US in general. 

• Scroll down to the section titled “Other Citizens: Check With Your State to Vote By Mail or Absentee Ballot.” 

Use this tool that will direct you to your home state’s website with information regarding voting.

• Make sure to click on the state in which you are registered to vote.
  

Look for a link/tab/section labeled “Absentee Voting” or “Voting by Mail”

• Every state website is different, but I promise you the information is there. You just need to do a little digging.
  

Request your absentee ballot (follow the instructions provided)

• You probably need to turn in your request for an absentee ballot ASAP! Most deadlines are coming up soon!
  
• Some requests can be done online, and some need to be mailed in. Read carefully!

Fill out your ballot, and send it in!

• You should receive your ballot within a couple weeks of requesting it. Again, pay attention to deadlines to make sure you send it in on time!
  
• This means you need to check your inbox or mailbox to make sure you don’t miss it!
• Fill out all the required forms, and sign everywhere you need to. There should be instructions attached to your ballot…read them!!
  
• Some ballots can be submitted online via a website, but many need to be mailed in. If you’re mailing, make sure you have the correct address, postage, and that it is postmarked by the deadline.

I’ll say it again: there are no excuses not to vote! Voting is one of the best ways to make an impact in your community and your country– take advantage of it. Happy voting!

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