Summary
The National Popular Vote Interstate Compact (NPVIC) is a reform initiative aimed at changing how electoral votes are allocated in presidential elections. Under this compact, states agree to award their electoral votes to the candidate who wins the national popular vote, regardless of the outcome in their own state. As of now, 17 states and Washington, D.C. have signed on to the compact, representing 209 electoral votes, but the initiative requires a total of 270 electoral votes to become effective.
The push for the NPVIC has gained momentum over nearly two decades, fueled by increasing public support for a national popular vote system. Recent polls indicate that a majority of Americans favor electing the president based on popular vote rather than the current Electoral College system. Democratic leaders, including Rep. Jamie Raskin, have criticized the Electoral College as outdated, arguing that it can have dangerous implications for democracy, as highlighted by the events of January 6, 2021. While support for the NPVIC is primarily found in Democratic-leaning states, advocates argue that it could enhance voter engagement and ensure that every vote carries equal weight, particularly in states that are typically overshadowed in the current winner-takes-all electoral framework.
Current Status of the NPVIC
- States Involved: As of October 2024, 17 states and Washington, D.C. have signed the NPVIC. Notable states include California, New York, and Illinois, which collectively hold a significant number of electoral votes.
- Voting Threshold: The compact will only take effect when the total electoral votes from the participating states reach 270, the majority required to win the presidency.
Challenges Ahead
- Political Landscape: The compact has primarily attracted support from Democratic-controlled states, making it challenging to gain traction in Republican-leaning states that benefit from the current Electoral College system.
- Constitutional Amendments: Abolishing the Electoral College entirely would require a constitutional amendment, a process that is viewed as highly difficult given the political divisions in the country.
Public Sentiment
Recent polling data shows that 58% of Americans favor amending the Constitution to elect presidents based on the popular vote. This sentiment is more pronounced among Democrats and independents compared to Republicans, indicating a potential partisan divide on the issue. The NPVIC represents a significant effort to align the electoral process with the principle of one person, one vote, as advocates believe that the current system disproportionately favors smaller states and skews campaign strategies toward a few battleground states.
Debunking 3 common myths about keeping the Electoral College
Oct. 30 / Fast Company / Debunks three common myths about the Electoral College, presenting a well-researched critique of its perceived benefits. Offers historical context and a clear argument for the National Popular Vote Compact. “ This article was originally published in November 2016 . In November 2000, newly elected New York Senator Hillary Clinton promised that when she took office...
Can the Electoral College be abolished? About the push for a national popular vote
Oct. 10 / Usa Today / Covers the complexities of abolishing the Electoral College, emphasizing the challenges of gaining bipartisan support. It succinctly outlines the National Popular Vote Compact, making it a practical resource. “ Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz branched out from Kamala Harris ' campaign's position Tuesday when he called for the end of the Electoral...
Walz silent on support for eliminating Electoral College after Harris camp says it doesn't back ban
Oct. 10 / Fox News / Reiterates Walz's ambiguous position on the Electoral College, echoing themes from other sources. While informative, it lacks unique insights and primarily serves as a recap of existing discussions. “ Fox News chief political anchor and 'Special Report' executive editor Bret Baier analyzes how candidates are performing in the swing states ahead of the 2024...
Walz silent on support for eliminating Electoral College after Harris camp says it doesn't back ban
Oct. 10 / Fox News / Highlights the silence of Tim Walz on his stance regarding the Electoral College, revealing the complexities within Democratic campaigns. Provides insight into shifting political positions, but lacks depth. “ Fox News chief political anchor and 'Special Report' executive editor Bret Baier analyzes how candidates are performing in the swing states ahead of the 2024...
Most Americans favor letting popular vote determine president
Oct. 1 / Baltimore Sun / Reports on public sentiment favoring a popular vote, citing Gallup data. Highlights partisan divides in support, making it a valuable source for understanding the political landscape around electoral reform. “ Most Americans want to see the president elected by a nationwide popular vote and to abolish the Electoral College. But the popular vote idea is more popular...
Map shows where effort to replace Electoral College stands
Sep. 26 / Cbs News / Maps the progress of the National Popular Vote Compact effectively, summarizing its current status and implications. Offers a clear visual representation of states involved, making the information accessible. “ For nearly two decades, there's been an effort to change the way the U.S. has always elected its presidents by creating a workaround to the Electoral...
Map shows where effort to replace Electoral College stands
Sep. 26 / Cbs News / Explores historical attempts to abolish the Electoral College, contextualizing the current push for reform. Offers a balanced view of both proponents and opponents, enriching the debate with historical perspectives. “ For nearly two decades, there's been an effort to change the way the U.S. has always elected its presidents by creating a workaround to the Electoral...
Democratic congressman claims Electoral College 'can get you killed,' blames for Jan. 6 Capitol riot
Sep. 13 / Fox News / Rep. Jamie Raskin's strong condemnation of the Electoral College as dangerous adds urgency to the debate. His remarks connect the system to recent political violence, providing a compelling narrative. “ Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., slammed the Electoral College as an "antique" system from the 18th century that "can get you killed." Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md.,...