Introduction
The Electoral College is an institution that has set the American system apart from other forms of popular government for over 200 years and plays a decisive role in selecting the Commander in Chief. Despite this, many voters remain confused about its true nature and how it functions. This article will give voters a basic overview of the Electoral College and how it impacts our elections.
What is the Electoral College
Simply put, the Electoral College selects the President. There are 538 electors representing all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The number of electors assigned to each state is based on the
combined number of representatives and senators. For example, South Dakota has one representative and two senators, meaning they have three electors. Additionally, DC is allotted three electors per the 23rd Amendment.
How the College Works
The Electors are appointed by the political parties on each state ballot, called a slate. States possess the authority to legislate the selection process and the autonomy granted to electors. In most states, after the votes have been counted, the slate of the winning party is selected and allowed to cast their ballots for the President. In Maine and Nebraska, a proportional system may result in electors from multiple parties being selected. While ostensibly electors are free to vote for whomever they wish, many states possess “good faith elector” laws that require electors to cast their vote in a manner that reflects the popular vote in that state.
For a candidate to win the Presidency, they must receive 270 electoral votes or 51% of the Electoral College. The electors meet to vote on the first Tuesday after the second Wednesday in December. These votes are recorded and sent to Congress, who officially count and certify the votes on January 6th following the election. The President-elect is then sworn in on January 20th. If no candidate receives at least 270 electoral votes, then the House of Representatives is tasked with selecting the next President.
What Does This Mean for You?
Does the existence of the Electoral College mean that you shouldn’t vote, No! Your vote is still relevant, and so-called “faithless electors” have not impacted the outcome of an election since 1836. The American public is still the essential body in selecting the US President.
Regardless of your opinion on the Electoral College, it would help if you still voted in this upcoming presidential election.
Sources
“About the Electors.” National Archives and Records Administration, National Archives and Records Administration, www.archives.gov/electoral-college/electors#selection. Accessed 1 July 2024.
“Electoral College.” USAGov, www.usa.gov/electoral-college. Accessed 1 July 2024.
“What Is the Electoral College?” National Archives and Records Administration, National Archives and Records Administration, www.archives.gov/electoral-college/about. Accessed 28 June 2024.