Consider This from NPR Is the Electoral College Anti-Democratic?
Oct 1, 2022
The discussion dives into the Electoral Count Reform Act, a response to the January 6th insurrection. Experts debate whether the Electoral College is truly democratic, considering historical perspectives and polling that suggests a push for its abolition. The winner-take-all electoral vote system comes under scrutiny for potentially undermining majority support in elections. Furthermore, the implications of the Electoral College on representation, funding for disaster relief, and calls for reform add layers to this fascinating conversation.
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Electoral College Origins
- The Electoral College wasn't strongly supported at the Constitutional Convention.
- It won by default because delegates couldn't agree on other options.
Presidential Election Options
- The founders considered three options for presidential elections: Congress chooses, national popular vote, or electors.
- The Electoral College, with state-level electors, was the third option.
Winner-Take-All System
- The main issue with the Electoral College isn't the electors themselves, but the winner-take-all system.
- This system isn't constitutionally mandated and can be changed by legislation.
