While the US political process is technically "open" (there are other political parties such as Libertarian, Federalist, socialist, Tea-party, etc), the actual means to conduct the selection process is pretty much closed to all but the two major political parties (Republican & Democrat).

There are requirements to get on the election ballot which can be parlayed to get people promoted, but the electoral college system tends to align with one of the two parties.

If I recall my grade-school civics correctly, the electoral college actually elects the President. These "delegates" are selected to represent the voters of that particular state (although they could remain undecided or cast a vote in opposition to the popular vote)

I think there was a brush-up in the Bush/Gore presidential in 2008? election having to do with the electoral college because the popular vote was so close in numbers. There was another president earlier (Taft?) elected by the college contrary to the popular vote tabulation...

You politicos correct my fuzzy memory please....


Jay