The significance of the Electoral College in U.S. presidential elections lies in its unique role in determining the President. Established by the U.S. Constitution, it consists of electors from each state who formally elect the president and vice president. Each state’s electors equal the total number of its senators and representatives in Congress. Candidates focus on winning electoral votes, which can lead to scenarios where a candidate wins the presidency without winning the popular vote. This system has implications for campaign strategies and reinforces the importance of swing states.