A Calamitous Compact

In: PS: political science & politics, Band 49, Heft 4, S. 791-796

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe National Popular Vote Interstate Compact (joined so far by ten states and DC) would replace the current presidential-election system, based on the electoral college and the winner-take-all rule, with nationwide plurality rule, and it would do so by changes in state law, not a Constitutional amendment. The mischief that would create (especially procedural instability, noncompliant electors, nation-wide recounts, vote manipulation, and narrowed support), the compact's questionable Constitutionality, the weakness of its defense, and the availability of less calamitous alternatives are reasons enough to reject it.