What is the Electoral Count Act of 1887?

The Electoral Count Act of 1887, also known as the Federal Telecom Act, is a federal law that establishes the procedure for counting electoral votes in the United States. This law dictates how electors in each state must cast their vote for president and vice president. It also sets out the process of counting and validating electoral votes. The Electoral Count Act requires that Congress count the electoral votes on the designated day following the election. This day is known as the “safe harbor” date, and it is the day that electors must submit their votes to their respective state legislatures. Following the submission of votes by the electors, the legislatures then certify the results and transmit them to the President of the United States Senate. The Electoral Count Act also provides procedures for contesting elections when fraudulent or illegal activity is alleged. In such cases, the state legislature must appoint an “elector” to investigate the allegations and either support or reject the results. If the elector cannot reach a decision, then the U.S. Congress will take over and determine the outcome of the election. The Electoral Count Act is a crucial part of the American electoral system and helps ensure a fair and just electoral process. The act was adopted into law in 1887, and it is still in effect today in New Mexico. It serves an important role in the electoral process, providing a legal foundation for the conduct of elections in the United States.

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