1. Conducting elections

The procedure begins with a nationwide vote, which takes place every four years on the first Tuesday of November. On this day, U.S. citizens cast their votes for party representatives. It is important to note that residents of the U.S. are actually voting not directly for a candidate, but for electors who make up the electoral college representing each state.

2. Work of the electoral college

After the nationwide vote, the electoral college convenes to officially vote for the candidates for president and vice president. The electoral college consists of 538 members, and to win, a candidate must receive at least 270 electoral votes. Voting in the electoral college occurs in December, several weeks after election day, and the results are officially announced in early January.

3. Confirmation of results by Congress

On January 6, the U.S. Congress convenes to count the electoral votes and officially confirm the winner of the election. The results are read by the Vice President of the United States, who simultaneously serves as the President of the Senate. In the case of a candidate receiving a majority of votes for the presidency, their victory is confirmed and becomes final.

4. Preparation for the inauguration

After the official confirmation of results, the election winner becomes the 'President-elect'. At this stage, preparations for the inauguration begin, which takes place on January 20. During this time, the newly elected president forms their transition team, appoints future cabinet members, and begins to familiarize themselves with important state documents. They gain access to confidential information, including national security data.

5. Inauguration

The inauguration takes place on January 20 in Washington, usually on the steps of the Capitol. This process symbolizes the transfer of power and includes the president's oath, which is conducted in the presence of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. The president reads the text of the oath as prescribed in the U.S. Constitution and promises to 'support, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States'. The oath completes the process of taking office, and from this moment, the new president officially assumes the duties of head of state.

6. Opening speech and initial instructions

Immediately after taking the oath, the new president addresses the nation with an opening speech, outlining their priorities and vision for the country's development. This moment is an important part of tradition and helps define the directions that will be key in the early months of governance.

7. Initial steps and instructions

In the first days after the inauguration, the president signs several executive orders aimed at fulfilling their campaign promises. These may include directives on the economy, international relations, healthcare, and other important aspects.