Who elects the President of the United States?

The President of the United States is elected by the Electoral College, which is established by the Constitution. During a presidential election, citizens cast their votes for a slate of electors pledged to a particular candidate, rather than directly voting for the candidate themselves. Each state has a certain number of electors based on its representation in Congress, combining the number of Senators and Representatives. After the general election, the electors then formally cast their votes for President and Vice President. This system was designed as a compromise between direct popular elections and selection by Congress, reflecting the framers' intent to balance influence among the states with the popular will.

The other options do not accurately describe the process: the Senate and House of Representatives do not directly elect the President, and the Supreme Court has no role in the election process. The Electoral College process ensures that all states have a voice in the election of the President, emphasizing the federal structure of the U.S. government.