Final answer:
The election period from mid-October to mid-December encompasses the end of campaign activities, Election Day, and the Electoral College's voting process that formulates the presidential election period in the United States.
Step-by-step explanation:
The election period that occurs from October 15 to December 17 typically involves the conclusion of campaigns, Election Day, and the subsequent formal Electoral College vote.
Debates are generally concluded by the end of October, in readiness for Election Day which, by federal law, is scheduled on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November.
The Electoral College then formally elects the president in mid-December. Election days are placed in November to fall after the farming season and to avoid conflicting with religious observances.
Additionally, during the general election season, candidates engage in debates and run their campaigns, with the aim of securing the necessary 270 Electoral College votes to win the presidency.