Election Reference Library
Start with any guide
These eight explainers are built from your election documentation and linked as a structured learning path.
Explainer
U.S. Election Timeline: Primaries to Inauguration
Follow the U.S. election timeline from candidate announcements and primaries through Election Day, certification, the Electoral College, and inauguration.
Explainer
Electoral College Explained: How It Works and Why It Exists
Learn how the Electoral College works, why presidential elections are decided state by state, how electors are assigned, and what happens if no candidate wins 270 votes.
Explainer
How Congress Is Elected: House and Senate Elections Explained
Learn how members of Congress are elected, including House districts, statewide Senate races, primaries, terms, redistricting, and special elections.
Explainer
Midterm Elections Explained: How U.S. Midterms Work
Learn how U.S. midterm elections work, which offices are elected, why control of Congress matters, and how midterms differ from presidential elections.
Explainer
Presidential Elections Explained: How the U.S. Elects a President
Learn how U.S. presidential elections work, from primaries and conventions to Election Day, the Electoral College, vote counting, and inauguration.
Explainer
Primary vs. General Elections: What Is the Difference?
Learn the difference between primary and general elections, including who can vote, what each election decides, and how candidates advance to office.
Explainer
Senate vs. House Elections: Key Differences Explained
Compare Senate and House elections, including statewide races, congressional districts, term lengths, election schedules, qualifications, and vacancies.
Explainer
Swing States Explained: Why Battleground States Matter
Learn what swing states are, why they matter in presidential elections, how campaigns identify battlegrounds, and why the list changes over time.