What is the electoral college?

The electoral college is a body established by the United States Constitution that consists of representatives from each state who are tasked with electing the President and Vice President of the United States. The number of electors from each state is based on its representation in Congress, which combines both Senate and House members. This mechanism was created to balance the influence of populous states with less populous ones in presidential elections, ensuring that all parts of the country have a say in the outcome.

When citizens cast their votes for President, they are actually voting for a slate of electors pledged to vote for their chosen candidate. These electors then convene to formally elect the President and Vice President. This process highlights the unique role of the electoral college in the U.S. electoral system, differentiating it from more direct forms of voting seen in many other democracies.