The article discusses the first four elections in the United States, which were like experiencing the elections from 2004 to 2016. Different states tried various methods to appoint electors, such as direct legislative appointment or district-based systems. By 1796, two main political parties had emerged, and states chose methods that favored the majority party. Some states required electors to receive a majority of votes for appointment, leading to runoffs if necessary. Massachusetts and New Hampshire used different runoff systems to select electors.