And almost all states are winner take all, meaning whether a candidate wins a race by one vote or a million, they get the electoral votes.That sets up the possibility—particularly in a close race like this year—that the winner of the popular vote doesn’t win the presidency.

Every four years, U.S. citizens cast their votes in favor of the next commander in chief; however, while every vote counts, it is ultimately the Electoral College that determines who will be the next U.

With the Election Day 2024 upon us and millions of Americans already casting their votes, here's what to know about a key piece of the election.