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Democrats could actually kill the Electoral College
The article describes the National Popular Vote Compact, an agreement under which participating states would direct their presidential electors to support the winner of the national popular vote. It says 22 states have joined, including California, and argues the compact could effectively end the Electoral College if enough states sign up.
The article contrasts the compact with the Electoral College system established in the Constitution in 1787. Supporters of the current system argue it protects smaller states and rural voters from being overlooked, while the article suggests a popular-vote system could lead candidates to focus more on large cities. The text provides no total number of electoral votes committed by all participating states or details on how close the compact is to taking effect.
In short
- 22 states have joined the National Popular Vote Compact.
- Members would award electors to the national popular-vote winner.
- Critics say the Electoral College gives smaller states a voice.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters argue that the presidency should go to the candidate who wins the most votes nationwide, so each ballot carries equal weight regardless of state. The compact offers a way for states to pursue that outcome through their existing authority over appointing electors, while preserving the Electoral College’s formal constitutional role.
The case against
Opponents argue that the Electoral College is part of the constitutional balance between states, giving smaller states and rural communities a voice in a country where population is concentrated in major cities. They may also contend that a compact changing how electors are appointed should not take effect without broader national agreement or constitutional amendment.