As the 2024 U.S. presidential election approaches, overseas voters are gaining significant attention from both candidates and campaigns. With the race between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris expected to be extremely close, the impact of Americans living abroad could prove decisive.
In mid-October, Greg Swenson, an American investment banker living in London, highlighted the intensified efforts to engage overseas voters. As chair of the U.K. chapter of Republicans Overseas, he noted that while previous election cycles may not have prioritized this demographic, the current political landscape demands it.
Estimates suggest there are between 4.4 million and 9 million Americans living outside the U.S., yet turnout among this group was only 7.8% in the 2020 election compared to 67% overall. Historically viewed as less influential due to low engagement, this year may be different, as both major campaigns are actively seeking votes from expatriates.
Swenson’s organization has ramped up its outreach, utilizing social media and hosting events to connect with potential voters. Similarly, Democrats Abroad has significantly increased its voter outreach budget, emphasizing the importance of overseas ballots in battleground states like Arizona and Georgia.
With the stakes higher than ever, both parties recognize that overseas voters could swing critical states. Initiatives include in-person campaigns and grassroots outreach, as seen with prominent Democratic figures making appearances at events aimed at expatriates.
Despite the challenges overseas voters face—such as complicated voting processes and time zone differences—there is a noticeable increase in engagement. Issues like reproductive rights are motivating voters to make their voices heard, with many expressing concerns about the implications of the election on their lives back home.
As the election nears, campaigns are realizing that overseas Americans are not merely an afterthought but a vital constituency. The efforts to mobilize this group reflect a shift in political strategy, underscoring the growing recognition of their potential impact on the electoral outcome.