Asian Journal- The Filipino-American Community Newspaper

To have a choice and the right to voice our opinion is a privilege. On November 4, 2008, we will have the opportunity to elect our nation’s next president, our congressional and state legislative representatives and to decide on twelve statewide propositions.

With this in mind, the US Election Assistance Commission (EAC), an independent bipartisan committee in charge of election administration has developed a guide to help voters in the election process. The voter’s guide is available in seven languages and gives pertinent information from registering, voting and casting a ballot on Election Day. It also includes information on eligibility, early and absentee voting, registration and voting process for military and civilians abroad and other polling place services.

“This guide is a one-stop resource for all types of voters, from first-time voters to frequent voters. It also includes step-by-step instructions for distinct categories of voters, such as military and overseas voters, who must follow special procedures. Citizens will also learn of new voting options that more states are offering, such as early voting and absentee voting. Voters need to know about all voting options, and this guide shows them how to take advantage of them.” said EAC Chair Rosemary Rodriguez.

Eligibility to Vote

Voters must be 18 years of age and a US Citizen. It is important to note that voting procedures vary from state-to-state. Voters need to review their state’s materials. The requirements are outlined in the “State Instructions” section of the National Mail Voter Registration Form. Links to all state voter information web sites are available online at  www.eac.gov and may also be provided by the state and local election offices.

How to Register

Complete and submit a National Mail Voter Registration Form which can be downloaded on the EAC’s website or the websites of other state and local election offices. You may also obtain a form from any state or local election offices, DMV, public assistance agencies, state funded programs for people with disabilities and any public facility designated as a voter registration agency such as public schools, library or county clerk’s office. This form may also be used to report a name, address change or to register with a political party.

Another option to register is by using your State’s Voter Registration Form.

Military Service Members And Overseas Citizens

Members of the military and overseas citizens may use the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) available from the Federal Voting Assistance Program’s (FVAP) website:   www.fvap.gov. The FPCA is accepted in all states and territories and serves both as a registration and an absentee ballot. Printed copies are also available at US embassies, military bases and consular offices. There will be Voting Assistance Officers at those sites that will provide information and help needed to complete the form. For further inquiry you may call FVAP at (800) 438-8683 or email:  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

As an alternative, overseas voters may also send a signed written request for an absentee ballot to their local election office.

First Time Voters / Registering By Mail

First time voters submitting a voter registration form through mail are required by Federal law to show proof of identification. Along with your voter registration form, you are to submit a copy of your current and valid photo identification or current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck or any government document that shows your name and address.

Federal law does not require proof of identification at the polling place or when voting by mail if you have already provided a copy of your identification with your voter registration form, your voter registration form has been verified by an election official or you are entitled by Federal law to vote by absentee ballot.

* Note that individual states may have additional identification proofs and may require voters to present identification at the polling place even if they meet the Federal proof of identification requirement. Contact your election office for additional information.