The Electoral College determines the president and vice president. Each state is given two votes in the college, as well as extra seats based on the state’s population. What is the purpose of the distribution of seats?

1. to ensure that the best candidate is elected president
2. to ensure that the president is supported by most citizens
3. to ensure the president represents small and large states proportionally
4. to ensure that the president is chosen by Congress and not popular vote

1 answer

The purpose of the distribution of seats in the Electoral College is primarily to ensure that the president represents small and large states proportionally (Option 3). This system is designed to balance the influence of less populous states with that of more populous states, ensuring that all states have a say in the selection of the president. Each state gets two electoral votes for its senators, regardless of population, plus additional votes based on its population, striking a balance between representation and equality among states.