GLADWYNE, Pennsylvania (WPVI) — In a remarkable display of civic duty, Lexi Harder, a determined 30-year-old from Gladwyne, Montgomery County, undertook extraordinary efforts to ensure her vote counted in Pennsylvania, a critical swing state in the upcoming elections.
“The outside envelope had been opened and re-sealed by customs,” said Lexi, reflecting on her tumultuous voting experience. “This was still sealed when I got it back.”
Currently pursuing her master’s degree in Berlin, Germany, Lexi had requested an absentee ballot to ensure her participation in the electoral process back home. This decision was vital, considering her dedication to casting her vote from abroad.
“I sent it in express because I wanted it to get here as soon as possible just to make sure it didn’t get stuck in the mail anywhere,” she explained, emphasizing her urgency in the matter.
Despite her ballot making its way to Pennsylvania and clearing customs in Philadelphia, it mysteriously found its way back to Germany, much to Lexi’s dismay.
The ballot landed back at Lexi’s residence in Berlin just days before the pivotal Election Day, leaving her devastated but determined to act quickly.
“I felt devastated and then I sprung into action,” she told Action News, recounting the frantic situation she faced.
Within just 20 hours of receiving her returned ballot, Lexi took swift action by boarding a plane. After enduring a grueling 15-hour journey that spanned over 4,000 miles and cost her $875, she finally returned home to exercise her right to vote in person.
“It’s definitely priceless. I would have paid triple that to come back,” she said, underscoring the importance of her civic engagement.
“I’m just very proud of her for making the effort, actually canvassing with me yesterday,” remarked Lexi’s mother, Debra Lew Harder, celebrating her daughter’s passion for participatory democracy.
Debra noted that this obstacle quickly transformed into an opportunity to witness her daughter’s fervent commitment to her country and democratic processes.
“The fact that my parents and my husband’s parents sacrificed a lot to come here and to have this right to vote and to pass it on to future generations, it’s just so important,” Debra emphasized, reflecting on the significance of voting rights.
The Action Cam captured the moment of triumph after Lexi made her voice heard at the polls.
“I surrendered my old ballot that got returned to me in the mail and I cast a normal ballot. I voted!” Lexi exclaimed with a sense of accomplishment.
With her studies focusing on environmental science, the climate crisis weighed heavily on Lexi’s mind as she cast her vote.
She expressed her hope that her dedicated actions would inspire others to take to the polls and make their voices heard, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement in shaping the future.
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**Interview with Lexi Harder: A Journey to Ensure Her Vote Counts**
**Editor:** Welcome, Lexi! Your story about voting from abroad is both inspiring and a testament to your dedication. Can you share what motivated you to go to such great lengths to ensure your vote was counted in Pennsylvania?
**Lexi Harder:** Thank you for having me! As a U.S. citizen living abroad, I felt it was my responsibility to participate in the electoral process. Pennsylvania is a critical swing state, and every vote counts. I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to voice my opinion, especially in such an important election.
**Editor:** You faced quite a few challenges with your absentee ballot. Can you tell us what happened when it returned to you just days before Election Day?
**Lexi Harder:** Absolutely. I was devastated when I found out that my ballot, which had cleared customs in Philadelphia, was sent back to me in Berlin. It was really disheartening to see all my efforts potentially wasted. But rather than give up, I quickly decided I had to take action.
**Editor:** And that action involved quite the trip! What steps did you take once you received your ballot back?
**Lexi Harder:** Once I got my ballot, I had about 20 hours to decide what to do. I booked a flight back to Pennsylvania, which cost me about $875. It was a grueling 15-hour journey, but I was determined to ensure my vote was counted in person. I think the urgency of the situation really pushed me to make that decision quickly.
**Editor:** It’s impressive how you prioritized your civic duty! How did you feel when you finally cast your vote in person?
**Lexi Harder:** It was an incredible relief and a proud moment for me. After all the chaos, being able to stand in line and cast my vote felt empowering. I was glad to know that my effort paid off, and that I was able to participate in the democratic process, no matter the obstacles.
**Editor:** Your story highlights how crucial it is for U.S. citizens abroad to understand the voting process. What advice would you give to others in similar situations?
**Lexi Harder:** I would definitely encourage them to familiarize themselves with their state’s voting laws and absentee ballot procedures as early as possible. It’s crucial to start the process well in advance to avoid any mail delays or issues. And if something goes wrong, don’t hesitate to act quickly—sometimes you have to go the extra mile to make sure your voice is heard!
**Editor:** Wise words, Lexi! Thank you for sharing your experience and inspiring others to stay engaged in the electoral process, no matter where they are in the world.
**Lexi Harder:** Thank you for having me! It’s important for us all to stay connected and informed.
