What is the Electoral College?

A Certificate of Ascertainment lists the:

• names of the electors chosen by the voters and the number of votes received
• names of all other candidates for elector and the number of votes received

The Governor of each State prepares seven original Certificates of Ascertainment listing the persons appointed as electors as soon as possible after the November election.

• Each Certificate must be signed by the Governor and carry the seal of the State.
• One of the seven original Certificates of Ascertainment, along with two certified copies (or two additional originals) must be sent by registered mail to the Archivist of the United States.
• Federal law does not govern the general appearance of the Certificate of Ascertainment.
• The remaining Certificates are paired with the Certificates of Vote at the Meeting of Electors in December.
  
  
• Read the Certificates of Ascertainment Preparation and Distribution Instructions

View the Certificates of Ascertainment from the:

• 2004 Presidential Election
• 2000 Presidential Election