What is the absolute majority of electoral votes required to win the presidency?

To win the presidency in the United States, a candidate must secure an absolute majority of the electoral votes. The total number of electoral votes available is 538. To obtain an absolute majority, a candidate needs more than half of these votes. Calculating half of 538 gives us 269, so the minimum threshold to achieve a majority is 270 electoral votes. This requirement ensures that a candidate has broad support among the states and is reflected in the structure of the Electoral College, which is integral to the presidential election process. Since 270 is the number that surpasses this halfway mark, it is crucial for a candidate aiming to secure the presidency.