Definition
Voting without physically being present, through proxy or recorded vote, because apparently democracy can function via absence. It's how legislators claim participation credit while attending fundraisers or avoiding controversial positions in person.
Example Usage
The senator cast an absentia vote from her campaign event, technically fulfilling her duties while actually glad-handing donors three states away.
Origin
From Latin 'in absentia' meaning 'in absence,' adapted to parliamentary procedure for remote voting
Fun Fact
Some legislatures forbid absentia voting to ensure actual debate, while others embrace it because empty chambers photograph poorly.
Source: Legislative procedure terminology
Related Terms
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