<P> The purpose of this clause is twofold . First , it makes clear the division of responsibility with respect to the conduct of the election of federal Senators and Representatives . That responsibility lies primarily with the states and secondarily with Congress . Second , the clause lodges the power to regulate elections in the respective legislative branches of the states and the federal government , not with the executive or judicial . As authorized by this clause , Congress has set a uniform date for federal elections : the Tuesday following the first Monday in November . </P>
who decides the times places and manner for holding elections
legislative branches of the states and the federal government