What is the purpose of the Electoral College?

The purpose of the Electoral College is fundamentally to serve as a mechanism that acts as a check against the direct popular vote in the election of the president and vice president. Established in the U.S. Constitution, the Electoral College was designed to balance the influence of populous states with less populous ones in presidential elections. This structure reflects the Framers' intent to ensure that all parts of the country have a say in the selection of the executive, rather than allowing a simple majority to dictate the outcome.

In practice, when citizens vote in a presidential election, they are actually voting for a slate of electors pledged to their chosen candidate. These electors then formally cast their votes for president. This system can lead to situations where the candidate who wins the popular vote does not secure the presidency through the Electoral College, reinforcing its role as a check on direct democracy. By requiring a distribution of support across various states rather than merely a nationwide majority, the Electoral College encourages candidates to appeal to a broader range of voters, representing diverse interests across the country.

The other options do not accurately capture the primary function of the Electoral College. It does not directly elect the president, as that decision ultimately lies with the electors rather than the voters themselves. While representation of political opinions