Time running out for US voters

If you have not registered to vote or requested a ballot for next month's general election it is time to act

TIME is running out for Americans in France wanting to take part in the congressional elections next month.

US voters must remember that new federal legislation means that those living abroad have to request absentee ballots every calendar year to guarantee their right to vote from abroad.

With the congressional elections coming on November 4 – and most US states requiring that voters register at least 30 days beforehand – time is running out for people to make sure their vote counts. Useful information is available on the site of the Federal Voting Assistance Program . In some states applications by fax, email or online are possible.

All 435 seats in the House of Representatives, and 33 of the Senate will be up for election.

The Union of Overseas Voters in Paris has also organised special workshops to help US voters. They will beat Shakespeare and Co. Bookshop, 37 rue de la Bûcherie, in the 5th arrondissement, on October 4 and 18 from 14.00-17.00. Experienced voting assistants will be there to help.

They will also be able to give information on Federal Write-In Absentee Ballots (FWAB), a special, blank backup ballot designed for US citizens living abroad who do not receive their ballot.