Alex Keyssar

Historian Alex Keyssar, a Harvard professor and expert on the Electoral College, dives into the U.S. presidential election process and its flaws. He highlights the paradox of winning the presidency without the popular vote and the implications of the winner-takes-all system. Keyssar explores modern alternatives, including the push for a national popular vote, and discusses the resistance from political leaders wary of losing influence. The conversation sheds light on the complexities of reform and emphasizes the importance of voter engagement in shaping a more democratic electoral future.

Cristina Quinn chats with Alex Keyssar, a historian at the Harvard Kennedy School and author of "The Right to Vote." They dive into the founding fathers' compromises that birthed the complicated Electoral College system, rather than a direct popular vote. Keyssar highlights the influence of the Three-fifths Compromise, the evolution of political parties, and how significant historical events like the end of slavery shaped today's electoral framework. Discover the intricacies of this pivotal aspect of U.S. democracy!