How did the original electoral college change with the 12th Amendment?

The 12th Amendment, ratified in 1804, fundamentally revised the process by which the Electoral College elects the President and Vice President of the United States. Prior to the amendment, members of the Electoral College cast two votes for President, and the individual receiving the second-highest number of votes would become Vice President. This system occasionally led to conflicts, especially when the President and Vice President were from opposing political factions.

The key change introduced by the 12th Amendment was the requirement for electors to cast separate votes for President and Vice President. This separation aimed to eliminate the confusion and rivalry that arose when the top two candidates received the highest votes, regardless of their party affiliation. Candidates now run on a joint ticket, ensuring that the President and Vice President are from the same political party, which promotes unity and coherence in governance.

This amendment established the clearer and more organized electoral process we have today, where voters also cast their ballot for a slate of electors pledged to vote for their preferred candidates for President and Vice President together. This separation of votes is what makes the amendment significant in shaping the current electoral system.