Understanding of the U.S. Presidential Election Process: Candidates, Dates and More

Primaries and caucuses are held in each state to determine which candidates receive delegates to secure their party’s nomination.

National  Conventions(July or August)

Each party holds a national convention to select and formally nominate its candidate.The vice-presidential running mate is selected by presidetial candidate at each convention.

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      Candidate Announcement      (1-2 years before election)

United States Presidential Election

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     General Election        (First Tuesday in November)

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An internal party process where political parties select members to represent them at their National Convention.

     Parties Choose Electoral College Candidates

Electors from each state cast votes. A candidate needs 270 electoral votes to win.

Parties Choose Delegates(February – June)

Candidates campaign across the country.Presidential debates are held.Voter registration and early voting take place.

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      Electoral College Vote        (Mid-December)

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72-78 days after the election the presidentswears the oath of office.

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Congress counts and certifies electoral votes.

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       General Election Campaign         (August – November)

         Presidential Inauguration           (January 20th)

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Primaries & Caucuses(Early February to June)

  Contingent Election      (tie-breaker)

Candidates declare their intention to run for president.They form campaign teams and start fundraising.

            Congressional Certification               (January 6th)