The electoral college was created by the Framers of the United States Constitution. Three factors in particular dominated the decisions made behind our existing election system:
One of the most commonly cited reasons for the construction of the electoral college was that the leaders of this newly formed government did not believe the average citizen was knowledgable enough to make a sound choice at the ballot. Read More
First, we have the popular vote. Registered voters go to their local ballots on election day, which is the first Tuesday following the first Monday of November, and place their vote for who they want as President.
Next comes the electoral votes. The electoral college is made up of individuals called electors. Each state has their own electors and within those states are two sets of electors to represent the two political parties: Republican and Democrat. When citizens cast their votes in November they are actually voting not for the presidential candidate, but rather the electors that fall under the chosen candidate's political party within their state. In roughly a months time from the general election, the electors all gather within their states and cast their vote for the President. Electors usually follow the popular vote of their state, but in rare instances like our most recent 2016 election, electors vote in opposition to the popular verdict. Electors are not legally bound to follow popular vote, but often do so as they are representing the vote of their entire state and political party.
Citizens should have the full facts to understand one of the most vital
ways their voice and opinions are heard.
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