What term describes the overall system governing elections?

The term that describes the overall system governing elections is "electoral system." This concept encompasses all the rules and processes that determine how votes are cast, counted, and translated into representation. An electoral system includes various components such as the method of voting (e.g., first-past-the-post, ranked choice), the structure of the electoral districts, and rules regarding eligibility and participation.

Understanding the electoral system is crucial as it directly influences the nature of political competition, the representation of voters, and the functioning of democracy as a whole. A well-designed electoral system can encourage voter engagement and ensure that the elected representatives accurately reflect the preferences of the electorate, while a poorly designed system can lead to disenfranchisement and distortions in representation.

The other terms might refer to specific aspects of elections but do not encapsulate the comprehensive framework that "electoral system" represents. For instance, "election framework" and "voting mechanism" might encompass elements of the system but lack the holistic nature of the electoral system. "Balloting process" focuses on a specific phase of the election, rather than the entire governing structure that includes rules, methodologies, and logistical considerations.