A Compromise in the Constitution
The Electoral College was established in the U.S. Constitution as a middle ground between electing the President by Congress and by direct popular vote. Though the term “Electoral College” isn’t in the Constitution, Article II and the 12th Amendment refer to “electors,” who cast votes on behalf of states.
Efforts to Reform It
Over 700 proposals to reform or abolish the Electoral College have been introduced in Congress, more than any other subject for amendments. Despite this, none have succeeded, as amendments require two-thirds approval in Congress and ratification by three-fourths of the states.
Third-Party Struggles
Third-party candidates have faced challenges under the system. For instance, Theodore Roosevelt earned 88 electoral votes in 1912 but still lost. Ross Perot, with 19% of the popular vote in 1992, won zero electoral votes, as his support was too scattered.
Controversial Outcomes
In five U.S. elections—1824, 1876, 1888, 2000, and 2016—candidates lost the popular vote but won the presidency through the Electoral College, igniting debates that continue to this day.
The Electoral College was established in the U.S. Constitution as a middle ground between electing the President by Congress and by direct popular vote. Though the term “Electoral College” isn’t in the Constitution, Article II and the 12th Amendment refer to “electors,” who cast… pic.twitter.com/OUUvNrlnXP
— Detective Tiger's Stories (@TigerDetective) December 17, 2024