The Peculiar Case of U.S. Elections
The United States stands out as a unique democracy. It holds a surprising fact: a candidate can receive the most votes and still lose the presidency. This scenario has occurred at least four times throughout history. From the 1800s to more recent elections, this phenomenon raises questions about the electoral system.
Take the 2016 election as a prime example. Hillary Clinton secured nearly three million votes more than Donald Trump. Yet, it was Trump who inaugurated as president. This discrepancy stems from the United States’ distinct electoral framework known as the Electoral College. This system fundamentally influences the outcome of presidential elections. Understanding how it works can provide clarity on why popular vote doesn’t always translate to victory.