In how many states can electors vote for whoever they want?

Electors in the United States are generally expected to vote in accordance with the popular vote in their state, but there are certain states that allow electors to vote for whomever they choose, regardless of the popular vote outcome.

Currently, there are 25 states that do not impose legal penalties on electors who decide not to vote for the candidate to whom they were pledged. This means that in these states, electors have the legal ability to cast their votes for any candidate they desire during the Electoral College process.

The concept of "faithless electors" comes into play in discussions about these states, as it refers to the electors who choose not to follow the popular vote result. These states recognize the right of electors to exercise their discretion, which ultimately contributes to the total number of states where electors can choose freely.

Understanding this aspect of the Electoral College reveals how electors can sometimes act independently, despite the prevailing expectation that they will align with their party's chosen candidate.