American elections

How an American Expat in SA is Getting in on the Election Buzz!

Curious about how American expats are participating in elections from South Africa? Discover Cristianne Wendler's unique perspective on voting from afar!

The American presidential elections command global attention, and for expats living abroad, the process of casting their vote brings an entirely new dimension to a once-familiar endeavor. Senior reporter, Aviwe Mtila, caught up with Cristianne Wendler, an American expat thriving in sunny South Africa, to discuss her sentiments on the current political climate back home. As the campaigns heat up, Wendler finds herself balancing a mix of nostalgia and responsibility as she prepares to exercise her democratic right from a distance.

"It’s definitely an interesting experience, voting from another country," Wendler shared. "While I keep up with the news and social media, it’s hard to grasp the local sentiments when you’re thousands of miles away. Meeting friends here who also share my American background has helped me stay connected and expand my understanding of the politics back home." Wendler reminisced about her voting days in the States, noting that she misses the excitement of local campaigning but feels a solidarity with fellow expats who also want their voices to be heard.

With the elections just around the corner, Cristianne has delved into researching candidates and their platforms, despite the complexities of voting from South Africa. "It takes more effort than expected to ensure my vote counts, but it’s all worth it," she said with a determined glint in her eyes. Additionally, the American community here organizes lively discussions and viewing parties, bringing a taste of the election frenzy right to sunny SA. She finds great joy in sharing those moments with others, forming a sense of camaraderie among expatriates.

In a world so divided by politics, it is inspiring to see individuals like Wendler finding innovative ways to engage with their homeland while being rooted in another. Despite the geographical distance, her passion for democracy continues to shine through as she endeavors to bridge the gap between her life in South Africa and her love for her home in the US.

Did you know that over 9 million Americans live abroad? This means that many like Wendler are navigating the complexities of voting overseas. Moreover, South Africa is known for having a vibrant expat community, making it a perfect backdrop for Americans who want to engage in their homeland’s politics while enjoying a taste of African culture.