The Electoral College is a unique system used in the United States to elect the president and vice president. It consists of 538 electors, with each state allocated a number based on its population and congressional representation. During the presidential election, voters cast their ballots for electors pledged to their chosen candidate, and the candidate who secures a majority of the electoral votes (at least 270) wins the presidency. This system plays a crucial role in shaping the electoral process and influencing campaign strategies across the country.