Overseas voters: Beware

[davidpdx]

It seems as though due to a change in laws that even if you have lived in and were registered in a state for a long period of time, if you declare you are not coming back you will be limited to only federal offices (Congress and President). This didn't seem to be the case in the past. I honestly feel like something was passed recently that removes the right to vote in any statewide election for those of us overseas.

I find this sad because I wanted to vote for governor, secretary of state, ballot measures, etc. Currently I'm trying to find out if I can reverse this, but my guess is no.

[NanceGreggs]

1. As someone who resides out-of-country ...

... thanks for the info.

What struck me, though, is the "if you declare you're not coming back" statement. My absentee ballot has never required, nor asked for, any such declaration. And should the declaration be asked for in future, why would I state that I "am not coming back" if in the doing, I am limiting my voting rights? And who is to assess whether I am being honest/dishonest in making that declaration, one way or the other?

If you learn more about this, a lot of us who vote absentee ballot would appreciate whatever information you are able to glean.

[davidpdx]

4. I'll try to see if I can find the information

I asked in a group on Facebook and I've been told the laws are different in each state.

I had a similar situation with renewing my driver's license. Now I don't have one from Oregon anymore. The only pieces of US ID I have is my passport and SS Card.

Every time I tell the truth on a government form I get screwed. It just goes to show, no good deed goes unpunished.

[whistler162]

2. Please provide a link!

You need to procide a link to either the government source or a honest source.

[davidpdx]

3. I honestly would like to, but this is something that was communicated to me in an email

by my local county clerk in Oregon. I have no idea whether this is an Oregon law or federal (my guess is Oregon because I've been told each state is different).

Here is the exchange I had with the person (I've removed their name for my privacy):

Dear absentee voter,

Please find attached your ballot for the November 4, 2014 General Election.
Please vote your ballot and sign your envelope. Then scan both of them and email them back to this email address.

If you have any questions please let me know.

XXXX


XXXX,

I'm curious, is this the Federal backup ballot? I thought a paper ballot would be sent as well. Also I don't see any of the state races.

Thanks,

David


David,

Unfortunately with you marking “I am a U.S. citizen residing outside the U.S. and I do not intend to return” on you 4/3/14 form you are only allowed to vote on Federal races.

XXXX

XXXX,

Is there anyway to change that now? After I get my doctoral degree there is always a chance I will come back to teach for a period of time. With my residency in Korea I can only leave for two years at a time without reapplying again, which is why I marked no. I'd appreciate it if you could advise me on this.

Thanks,

David