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After casting a vote in a presidential election, the process of selecting the next leader continues through several steps. Understanding this process helps clarify how votes translate into a presidency.
The Electoral College Process
Most U.S. states use the Electoral College system. Each state has a certain number of electors based on its congressional representation. When voters select a candidate, they are actually voting for a slate of electors committed to that candidate.
The electors then meet in their respective states in December to cast their official votes. These votes are sent to Congress for counting in January.
Counting Electoral Votes
In early January, Congress convenes to count the electoral votes. The Vice President presides over this session. If a candidate receives a majority of electoral votes, they are declared the winner.
If no candidate achieves a majority, the House of Representatives chooses the president from the top three candidates, with each state delegation having one vote.
The Inauguration
Once the electoral votes are counted and a winner is confirmed, the president-elect prepares for inauguration. The inauguration ceremony takes place on January 20, marking the official start of the new presidency.
This process ensures that the electoral system functions as the final step in selecting the nation’s leader after voters have expressed their preferences.