Final answer:
The number 538 represents the total electors in the Electoral College system, composed of 435 representatives, 100 senators, and 3 electors from the District of Columbia. The inclusion of DC's electors allows its residents to have representation in presidential elections. The Electoral College protects the political clout of smaller states in presidential contests.
Step-by-step explanation:
The significance of the number 538 in the Electoral College system is that it represents the total number of electors who formally cast votes for the election of the president and vice president of the United States. This number comprises 435 representatives, 100 senators, and an additional 3 electors from the District of Columbia. The inclusion of these three additional seats for the District of Columbia ensures its residents have representation in presidential elections, despite DC not being a state. This arrangement is due to the 23rd Amendment which granted the District of Columbia the ability to participate in the Electoral College.
The benefit of this system, particularly with the inclusion of the District of Columbia, reflects the principle that every American should have a voice in choosing the president, providing at least minimal representation for residents of the District who would otherwise be disenfranchised from voting for president due to not residing within a state. Additionally, the Electoral College system protects the representative power of smaller states and less densely populated regions, giving them proportionally more influence in presidential elections than their populations might suggest, as reflected in a 'winner-take-all' approach used by most states.