Who determines the times, places, and manner of holding elections for senators and representatives?

The determination of the times, places, and manner of holding elections for senators and representatives is vested in the legislature of each state. This principle is established in the U.S. Constitution, specifically in Article I, Section 4, which grants state legislatures the authority to regulate the administration of federal elections within their borders. This allows states to set specific details related to the electoral process, such as voting procedures, locations, and schedules, while also ensuring that they adhere to broader federal regulations.

The implication of this authority is significant, as it allows for flexibility and adaptability to local needs and circumstances. State legislatures can enact laws that reflect the preferences and conditions of their populations, which can lead to variations in election laws across the country. This decentralized approach recognizes the states' rights to govern their electoral processes while also being accountable to federal standards.