(This article originally appeared in the October 2026 issue of Military Officer magazine.)

The general election is Nov. 3, and for servicemembers, veterans, military families, and survivors, voting is one of the most direct ways to shape the policies that affect your community.

Military-connected voters bring firsthand experience with issues such as deployments, military health care, veterans benefits, and the transition to civilian life. Casting a ballot helps ensure those perspectives are represented in the decisions that shape the nation’s future.

About 17% of the 119th Congress has military experience, down from more than 70% in the 1970s. As fewer lawmakers arrive in Washington with firsthand military experience, fewer have lived the realities of deployments, PCS, navigating TRICARE and VA benefits, or transitioning from military to civilian life. That makes the voices of those who have served more important than ever.

What to Know Before Nov. 3

• Register or update your registration. If you’ve moved, changed voting jurisdictions, or are unsure your registration is current, check before Election Day.
  
  
• Know your state’s deadlines. Registration, absentee ballot requests, and ballot return deadlines vary. Visit Vote.gov for your state’s requirements.
  
  
• Are you voting from overseas or away from home? Active duty servicemembers and eligible family members should use the Federal Voting Assistance Program to submit a Federal Post Card Application, which must be completed each calendar year and following every move.
  
  
• Did you not receive your ballot? Your installation voting assistance officer can help you obtain a federal write-in absentee ballot, which is accepted for federal elections in every state.

MOAA is a nonpartisan organization and does not support or oppose candidates or political parties. We encourage every eligible servicemember, veteran, family member, and survivor to participate in the electoral process. One of the most meaningful ways to ensure the military community’s perspective is heard is to cast your ballot.