By Keaton Hills
The Carleton Tavern will be a gathering spot for Americans and other U.S. election watchers on Tuesday, Nov. 3, as Canada’s Capital Region chapter of Democrats Abroad hosts a midterm election watch party.
Beginning at 7 p.m., attendees will follow live returns from races for the U.S. Senate, House of Representatives and state governorships. The event takes place on the tavern’s main floor at 223 Armstrong St., at Parkdale Avenue.
David Schellenberg, the chapter’s media contact, said past gatherings have usually drawn about 30 people, with attendance reaching as many as 60 in some years. Organizers have underestimated the turnout in the past, he said, and this year’s level of interest could bring a larger crowd.
The invitation extends to American expatriates, dual citizens and other residents interested in following the results. The watch party is open to everyone.
With the last polls in states with key races not closing until late, such as Texas which does not close until 9 p.m. Eastern, those hoping to stay for the late returns should have company. Schellenberg said organizers plan to remain until at least midnight, and possibly later if the tavern allows.
Democrats Abroad is the Democratic Party’s official organization for Americans living outside the United States. It works to mobilize overseas voters and elect Democratic candidates.
Schellenberg said encouraging Americans in Canada to vote is important given the United States’ power and the concerns many people have about the country’s direction. He added that, regardless of his own political preferences, he wants as many eligible Americans as possible to vote.
For Americans who have not yet cast a ballot, Schellenberg said there may still be time, depending on their voting state.
He directed voters to VoteFromAbroad.org, a website maintained by Democrats Abroad that provides state-specific voting information and access to volunteers who can help with the process.
Ballot request deadlines and return methods vary by state, so voters should check the requirements that apply to them. Some states require ballots to be mailed back. The website also provides information about the Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot, a backup option for overseas voters whose requested official ballot has not arrived.
According to Democrats Abroad, upcoming ballot request deadlines include:
• Saturday, Oct. 31: District of Columbia, New Mexico and Michigan.
• Monday, Nov. 2: Alaska, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, North Carolina, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Utah and Vermont.
• Tuesday, Nov. 3: Arizona, California, Colorado, Kansas, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, Oregon,South Carolina, Washington and Wisconsin (military voters only).
Admission to the watch party is free, with food and drinks available for individual purchase. Organizersencourage attendees to RSVP through the Canada section of democratsabroad.org to help with planning