Table of Contents
What determines who a state votes for?
The formula for determining the number of votes for each state is simple: each state gets two votes for its two US Senators, and then one more additional vote for each member it has in the House of Representatives.
Who decides on the rules that govern the American election system?
The Constitution simply states that “The Times, Places and Manner of holding Elections for Senators and Representatives, shall be prescribed in each State by the Legislature thereof; but the Congress may at any time by Law make or alter such Regulations” (Article I, section 4).
What vote really elects the president of the United States?
It is the electors’ vote that technically decides the election, and a candidate must gain 270 electoral votes to win the White House. In most elections, the winner of the popular vote also wins the majority of the electoral votes.
Does the president have to follow the laws?
The President is responsible for implementing and enforcing the laws written by Congress and, to that end, appoints the heads of the federal agencies, including the Cabinet. The Vice President is also part of the Executive Branch, ready to assume the Presidency should the need arise.
How are the electors chosen in each state?
Electors are nominated by the political parties in each state according to rules established by state legislatures. The number of electors by state is equal to the number of members of the House of Representatives plus two senators, according to Article II, Section 1 of the Constitution.
What makes voters decide on a political issue?
Issue voting occurs when voters base their decisions on how the candidates address political issues. The rise in issue voting can be traced to increased polarization between the Democratic and Republican parties, which has increased numbers of independents.
Can a senator or representative serve as an elector?
A senator, representative, or a person holding an office of trust or profit cannot serve as an elector. A total of 538 electors will meet at state capitals on Dec. 8 to cast their votes. The roster of electors cannot be substituted after Election Day, according to a report by the National Task Force on Election Crises.
Is it illegal to ask someone who voted for You?
There’s no law preventing someone from asking you who you voted for. How do I report voter fraud or voter suppression? If you suspect voter fraud, report it to your state or territorial election office. You can also report it to: Is Voting Mandatory in the United States?