What does the term "faithless electors" refer to in the context of the electoral college?

Study for the Taft Law School Bar Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The term "faithless electors" specifically refers to electors in the electoral college who do not cast their vote in accordance with the candidate they were pledged to support. This situation typically arises when an elector decides to vote for a different candidate than the one they were chosen to support, which can disrupt the expected electoral process.

This practice is significant because it highlights the tension between the popular vote in a state and the final outcome determined by the electors. While many states have laws binding electors to vote for the candidate they represent, there are instances where electors choose to exercise their discretion, leading to consequences for the electoral system.

Understanding this definition is essential, as it underscores the potential for human agency within a structured electoral framework and raises questions about the mechanisms of accountability among electors. The other interpretations do not accurately capture the essence of the role of electors in the electoral college system.

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