in politics, the selection by voting of a person or persons to occupy some post or office. The most important elections are those of the members of the legislative assemblies of the different countries, and these are regulated by strict laws. In such elections voting by ballot is now general (See BALLOT). Federal jurisdiction of elections in the United States extends to the elections of such officers of the Federal government as are elective, namely, the president, vice-president and members of the House of Representatives. The election of officers of the state and local governments is regulated by the several states. The president and vice-president are elected by a college of electors (See ELECTORAL COLLEGE). Each state is entitled to two senators in Congress, who are elected by the legislatures of the several states; members of the House of Representatives are elected directly by the people. All citizens of the United States are entitled to vote except citizens of the District of Columbia. The constitutions of the several states grant to certain citizens the right of suffrage. The laws of each state prescribe the qualifications of voters, which vary somewhat in the different states. The following qualifications may be classed as universal: That the elector shall be over twenty-one years of age, neither lunatic nor pauper, and prepared to take, if necessary, an oath of allegiance to the Federal government. The length of residence required for voting in the state varies in the different states. Property qualification is required only in Rhode Island. Some of the states require an ability to read and write. In the states of Wyoming, Colorado, Utah and Idaho the right of suffrage is extended to women, with power to hold office. See BALLOT.