What is the Electoral College?

The Electoral College is a group of 538 electors that meet every four years to help influence who will become America's next president. They are chosen by the citizens who trust them to make the right decision and best represent the popular vote. This process began in the Constitution and was slightly altered by the 12th amendment. The purpose of the electoral college is to balance the popular vote with the votes of Congress. The number of electors for each state is determined by the population of the state. The state of California leads with 55 electoral votes, while less populated states like Vermont and North Dakota only have three electoral votes. In order to win a presidential election, the candidate must receive 270 electoral votes. If no majority is reached, then the House of Representatives determines the next president. This has happened only twice in history. This has faced much criticism due to the uncertainty of whether the popular vote is important in determining who wins a presidential election. Some argue that the popular vote is being compromised, while others believe that it maintains a separation of power in our government.