Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections Ron Turner is encouraging anyone not already registered to vote to celebrate National Voter Registration Day by doing just that: registering to vote! Tuesday, September 19 is National Voter Registration Day, a day dedicated to getting every eligible American registered to vote for their next election. Since 2012, more than 5 million Americans have registered to vote on National Voter Registration Day. “Registering to vote is the first step to casting your vote and having your voice heard at the ballot box,” Turner said. “My hope is that every eligible voter in Sarasota County will register in time to participate in coming elections.” Registering to vote is quick and easy, and can be done online at RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov, by mail or at one of three convenient supervisor of elections office locations in Sarasota, Venice or North Port. Turner points to a busy 2024 election year as motivation to get registered. “There are three statewide elections in 2024—the March 19 Presidential Preference Primary, the August 20 Primary Election, and the November 5 General Election,” he said. “With 70 offices up for election in 2024, it’s important for citizens to participate in the electoral process to have a say in the races and issues that affect their lives.”  Every year, millions of Americans find themselves unable to vote because they miss a registration deadline, don’t update their registration or aren’t sure how to register. Turner urges Sarasota County residents to avoid being part of that statistic by registering to vote now. “Florida law requires that individuals be registered at least 29 days before the next election,” he said. “So, although 2024 seems like a long way off—don’t wait! Register to vote and be election ready.” Among other requirements, to register to vote in Florida you must be a citizen of the United States of America, be a Florida resident and be 18 years old. In addition, 16- and 17-year-olds may pre-register to vote. More information can be found by visiting SarasotaVotes.gov or by calling 941.861.8619.