The electoral College

Why was it put in place?

The founding fathers did not think the people had enough information or wisdom, they did not trust state legislators to put aside their own narrow concerns and think about national interest. Also, Madison thought it combined the importance of states and population like bicameralism

How is the number of electors in each state determined?

Each State is allocated a number of Electors equal to the number of its U.S. Senators (always 2) plus the number of its U.S. Representatives - which may change each decade according to the size of each State's population as determined in the Census. It is subject to change.

What is the National Popular Vote?

it is an instate compact which states agree to cast their electoral votes for the candidate winning the popular vote. 8 states have adopted this method including: California, Illinois, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. Together, they constitute 132 electoral votes, but candidates need 270 to win.

How many total electoral votes are there?

538

What would have to occur to change to a popular vote?

An amendment to the constitution instituting a popular vote would have to occur (constitutional change).

Who determines how the electors in a state are selected?

In early years, state legislatures used to choose electors. But now, political parties choose electors.

Where does this number come from?

100 senators + 435 House Representatives + 3 votes for Washington DC - from the 23rd amendment (they have no representation in congress)

How do 48 states allocate the electors?

48 states choose to allocate the electors in a winner-take-all manner.

How many electoral votes does a successful candidate need?

A successful candidate needs 270 votes to win.

What are the arguments for the electoral college?

People argue for the electoral college because it is maintains the idea of federalism that the founding fathers sought, it is technically easier than the national election, it gives small states influence in the election, it prevents urban-oriented victories, and it helps minority groups gain representation

What are the arguments against the electoral college?

People argue that its undemocratic - the popularly elected candidate may not always win. It concentrates attention to a few swing states, it discourages turnout if the state you vote in "doesn't matter," it discourages third parties and it leaves the possibility of faithless electors.

How are electors chosen?

State law determines how electors are selected. Article 2, section 1 states: "Each state shall appoint, in such manner as the legislature thereof may direct, a number of electors...no senator or representative or person holding an office of trust or profit under the United States, shall be appointed an elector" Generally, the political parties nominate electors at their State party conventions or by a vote of the party's central committee in each State.

What was the last time a presidential candidate won the popular vote and lost the electoral vote (and did not become president).

The last time a presidential candidate won the popular vote and lost the electoral vote (and did not become president) was in 2000. Al Gore won the popular vote, but wound up losing to George W. Bush in the electoral vote, 271 to 266.

What are faithless electors?

Electors who choose to not vote for whom they had previously pledged to vote for.

How does the electoral college work?

It grants states electors based off the house representation and their 2 senators. These electors then vote for the president based off of voting in their state. Including 3 votes for Washington DC, there are 538 electoral votes. Candidates need 270 to win. If there is tie, the house will vote on who becomes president and the senate on vice president