How to become the President of the US

Have you ever wondered how the US President wins the election?

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Becoming President

The American presidential election operates under the Electoral College mechanism, a system rooted in the American Constitution.

Conducted every four years, citizens cast their ballots for electors committed to specific presidential candidates, rather than the candidates themselves.

Flag waves at Washington Mall near the capital
Flag waves at Washington Mall near the capital

The electoral votes

The electoral votes of each state are equal to its Congressional representation: two Senators and its number of House Representatives, which varies by population. Once the American people have cast their votes, the predominant candidate in most states gains all its electoral endorsements.

The United States Capitol building at sunset, Washington DC, USA.
The United States Capitol building at sunset, Washington DC, USA.

Federal principles

With 538 electoral votes available — the sum of the 535 Congressional seats plus three for the District of Columbia — a Presidential candidate must amass a majority of 270 to ascend to the presidency.

This system, though occasionally controversial, ensures representation for all states in the presidential selection process, maintaining the federal principles at the core of US governance.

White House, under dramatic sky, sunset golden light, Washington DC
White House, under dramatic sky, sunset golden light, Washington DC

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    • Getty Images