Understanding the American Presidential Election Process

united states - Learn how the American presidential elections work and the role of swing states in determining the outcome.

The American presidential elections operate through the Electoral College, where electors, known as 'kiesmannen,' vote on behalf of the citizens of their state. The candidate who wins the majority of electoral votes (270 out of 538) becomes the president. This system, outlined in the US Constitution, has led to cases where the candidate with fewer popular votes has won the election, as seen in Trump's victory over Clinton in 2016.

Some states, like Texas and California, have clear partisan preferences, while others known as swing states present a more unpredictable outcome. States like Michigan and Pennsylvania could go either way, making them crucial battlegrounds. A small group of swing voters in these states can have a significant impact on the election result.

The participation of American citizens in the election process is vital, though voter registration requirements and deadlines vary by state. While the two major parties, Democrats and Republicans, dominate the presidential race, third-party candidates and independents also run, albeit with little chance of success. The electorate's decision will ultimately determine the next president of the United States.

The current race between Trump and Harris remains close, with both candidates vying for the support of swing voters in key states. Recent history has shown that polls can be unreliable indicators of election outcomes, as seen in the surprising win by Trump in 2016. Survey responses and undecided voters can significantly influence the final result.