What is the purpose of the Electoral College in the U.S.?

The purpose of the Electoral College in the United States is to formally elect the President and Vice President. This system, established by the Constitution, creates a unique method for electing these officials that involves a body of electors, each representing their respective state. When citizens cast their votes during presidential elections, they are actually voting for a slate of electors pledged to support their choice for President. These electors then formally meet and cast the official votes for President and Vice President, which is later counted by Congress.

Other choices relate to government functions but do not accurately describe the role of the Electoral College. Selecting members of Congress is done through direct elections by the voters without the involvement of the Electoral College. Verifying the population census pertains to demographic data collection and is not a function of the Electoral College. Conducting national elections involves various systems and organizations but does not specifically relate to how the President and Vice President are chosen through the Electoral College framework.