Lawmakers Demand Answers on Military Absentee Ballots

Active-duty U.S. service members are raising alarms over the lack of absentee ballots necessary for voting ahead of the 2024 Election, prompting three Republican congressmen to demand accountability from Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. They highlighted 'grave concerns' regarding the Defense Department's protocols, noting that the absentee ballot stockpile has been depleted and inadequately replenished. Additionally, service members reported insufficient education on how to vote while deployed, with many unaware of the process to request federal write-in absentee ballots. The lawmakers criticized the Biden Administration for failing to prioritize the voting rights of military personnel, asserting that they have mobilized resources to block state-level election integrity measures. With only days left until Election Day, there are fears that immediate action may not be taken to remedy the situation.