What does individual representation mean in the context of the U.S. electoral system?

Individual representation in the context of the U.S. electoral system refers to the principle that every vote has equal weight, meaning one person equals one vote. This is fundamental to a democratic system, as it ensures that all citizens have an equal opportunity to influence the outcome of elections and have their voices heard in the political process.

This concept emphasizes that regardless of a voter's background, neighborhood, or any other factor, each individual's choice at the ballot box is valued equally. This principle is critical for maintaining fairness and equity in the electoral process, reinforcing the idea that all citizens should have an equal stake in their government and its decision-making.

The other options do not accurately reflect the principle of individual representation. For instance, the idea that every state has equal representation in Congress pertains more to the structure of the U.S. Senate, where all states have two senators regardless of population, rather than to individual votes. Additionally, the option regarding voters with higher incomes misrepresents the democratic ideal that every vote should carry the same weight, while the mention of electoral votes based on population density speaks to the complexities of the Electoral College system, rather than the direct representation of individual voters.