Elections matter. Casting a ballot for political candidates, referendums and proposed constitutional amendments directly influences the future of our cities, state and nation. But before any Floridian’s voice can be heard, he or she must register to vote. And to have a voice in the November election, Floridians must be registered to vote by October 9.

More than 11.7 million Floridians are currently registered to vote. If you aren’t already among these voters who choose our country’s leaders, it is very simple to register. Fill out a short voter registration form, which can be found online at http://www.election.myflorida.com/, and get it to your county supervisor of elections office. Floridians who want to check to see if they are already registered can do so at the same web address using the Voter Information Lookup. Registered voters should also make sure their signature and address are up-to-date.

Once registered, Florida voters have several options to vote on their schedule. Voting by mail is already possible for the general election. Any Florida voter can request an absentee ballot from their supervisor of elections and receive and return it by mail. Additionally, Florida’s new early voting hours are more flexible than ever before. Early voting begins on October 27 and continues every day through November 3. Voters should check with their county supervisor of elections office about locations and times.

Election Day is November 6. In addition to the candidates and referendums, this year’s ballot includes 11 proposed constitutional amendments, so voters will benefit from being familiar with the ballot before arriving at the polling place.

Sample ballots can be provided by county supervisors of elections.

Whether you do it for your family, students, business or community, voting ensures we can continue to have a government of the people, by the people and for the people.

It is a right that should not be taken for granted and one that symbolizes our nation’s freedom. Vote and let freedom ring.

For more information on the voting process, I recommend visiting http://www.knowyourvotecounts.com/.

Ken Detzner, secretary of state, Tallahassee