Residency and voting rights Published Oct. 4, 2010 By 2nd Lt. Whitney Bouchard 17th Training Wing Legal Office GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- "Don't blame me ... I voted for the other guy!" We've all seen bumper stickers to this effect - some are entertaining, others are offensive and some utilize colorful language. Political affiliation aside, these types of comments are meant to inspire readers to consider the issue at hand and perhaps make their opinion known via their ballot. If the buzz around the upcoming mid-term elections has you considering your right to vote, you should fully understand your options. This article provides voting residency guidelines to help determine what state servicemembers and their family are eligible to vote in. First of all, members must keep in mind that servicemembers and their family cannot choose which state to declare as their legal voting residence without meeting the state's residency requirement. Guidelines to follow in determining residency for servicemembers and their family are: Have or have had a physical presence in the state with the intent to remain or make the state your home or domicile; Have only one legal residence at a time; Make a conscious decision to change residency; it cannot be done accidentally. Action proving a conscious decision include registering to vote, registering a car, paying state income taxes where applicable, obtaining a driver's license in the state, payment of personal property tax in the state, completing a DD Form 2058 (change of domicile) for military records, and a written intent to abandon the previous domicile and establish it in the new state. Once residency is established, individuals can take the necessary steps to vote in local, state and national elections. The Federal Voting Assistance Program, at www.fvap.gov, can help servicemembers and their family request absentee ballots. Additionally, under the Air Force Voting Assistance Program, a Voting Assistance Officers can assist with general questions and absentee ballots. Keep in mind that many states require residents to submit individual requests for every election. In the case of cities, counties or states holding primary elections for various positions, this may mean submitting multiple requests in the same calendar year. The resident's city or county clerk office can help individuals understand their municipality's voting and election calendars. While the Air Force encourages its members to exercise their right to vote, remember this right doesn't extend to campaigning or participating in election activities. Those with questions about these limitations should call the legal office at (325) 654-3203.
