For the first time since I’ve lived out of the United States, I was able to cast my ballot via the internet. I had requested an online ballot from the County of Orange. The registrar had forwarded a packet that included a statement of oath, swearing to my identity, a digital envelope that matched the type that I had used for mail-in ballots, and the ballot itself.

Each was in a PDF format, which when completed, was no longer editable. There were instructions to fax, or email the documents to a registrar’s fax service for delivery. With some help from google search, I was able to find a free ‘online fax’ service.

I had signed each document digitally, including the envelope, and was fascinated, and gratified, when a woman from the registrar’s office contacted me. She said i needed to print the envelope, hand sign it, and resend. This allowed them to check my signature against what I have previously used. Yes, it’s me.

I dutifully scanned my now ‘inked’ signature envelope and sent the replacement. The registrar’s office notified me when it had arrived and that my ballot was now complete.

What a thrill to participate in my democracy and support my country, even while living outside it’s borders. Secure and safe elections, again in 2024.