According to the United States Constitution and our Founding Fathers, a presidential candidate must be a natural born American citizen, and must reside in the United States for at least 14 years. Another requirement is that he/she be at least 35 years of age, and not have an outstanding criminal record. After being elected, he/she may serve a term of 4 years, and be re-elected only for an extra term totaling a maximum of 8 years. The requirements of a prospective president have evolved over time. For example, at one time only white males were eligible for the presidency, now males and females of any ethnicity are eligible. The process of election spans for over an year. Each respective party such as the Democratic, Republican, Libertarian, Reform, and Green select a nominee to represent them in the general election through many statewide primaries and conventions. In the general election the candidate with the highest electoral votes, usually 270 becomes President-elect. He/she may become a full president, only after giving oath on the day of the inauguration.