Can someone explain the Electoral College to me?

[poppymango]

While we all wait nervously for America to choose their new president, would someone very kind like to explain to me what the Electoral College is and how it works?

I’m aware it’s not popular and have heard American friends complain that it’s undemocratic, but I have no idea why.

Please explain it like I’m five – I find politics confusing!!

Each state has Representatives (a bit like our MPs) according to their population. In addition, they have two senators. Together, this number gives the number of Electoral College votes.

Sounds reasonable? Only it's not, because the party that wins the state gets all the EC votes (winner takes all), even if they just get 50.1%. This is why the election is just down to a few marginal (bell-weather or swing) states.

BTW, this system originated from the early days of the republic, when the EC met up to cast their vote. They, as individuals, were not obliged to vote for the winning party in their state.

There are 538 electors and you need 270 to win!

it was also designed to get small states to accept the constitution and a strong federal government because small states can be more important and get more attention than if population alone

Correct!