The National Archives is more than the place to see the constitution and the Declaration of Independence. It also has a key role managing the Electoral College. The Electoral College is a process, not a place. And the Archives has a key role in making that process work.
A tour we think you'll love
Since given the job by President Harry Truman in 1950, The Archives work with the states to make sure that each state’s Certificate of Ascertainment and Vote include the proper information. Take a look at the actual electoral certificates from this and past years of each state. Note that some are rather plain (South Dakota) while others (Pennsylvania) retain a bit of Elizabethan English used when the colonies were founded.
After the certificates are accepted, the Archives hands them over to the Senate to be counted. The certificates are available for public inspection for one year after the election before being put in the permanent collection.
Everyone should take some time when touring Washington to see the Charters of Freedom at the Archives. Most people, however, miss some of the wonderful objects in the Archives’ galleries. I’d be happy to show them to you so your time in Washington is well spent!
