What is the function of the Electoral College?

The function of the Electoral College is to formally elect the President and Vice President of the United States. This system was established in the U.S. Constitution and consists of a group of electors from each state, typically equal to the number of its senators and representatives in Congress. When citizens cast their votes for president during an election, they are actually voting for a slate of electors pledged to that candidate. These electors then convene and cast their votes for the President and Vice President, officially determining the outcome of the election.

This process emphasizes the role of states in the presidential election and aims to balance the influence of populous states with that of less populous ones. The Electoral College thus serves as a mechanism that ensures the election of these two key executive positions is executed through a structured and representative process.