From The Boston Globe · · 1m 20s
Democrats Gain Electoral Control, Could Change Presidential Election
Democrats now control 71 electoral votes, potentially ending the Electoral College by shifting to national popular vote.
In brief
Democrats now control 71 electoral votes, potentially ending the Electoral College by shifting to national popular vote. Democrats gained control of six states with 71 electoral votes, which could require a national popular vote to win the presidency. Originally reported by The Boston Globe.
Democrats gain control in six states
Democrats won full control in six states representing 71 electoral votes: Arizona, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
National Popular Vote Compact
The compact would require 270 electoral votes to win the presidency and shift the election to national popular vote.
Support from governors
Wisconsin's new Democratic governor David Crowley and Pennsylvania's governor Josh Shapiro support moving to national popular vote.
Opposition from governors
Arizona's governor Katie Hobbs and Nevada's previous governor Steve Sisolak oppose joining the compact.
Legal challenges expected
Conservative groups warn the compact disenfranchises voters and violates the Constitution, potentially leading to Supreme Court challenges.
Historical context
The idea gained traction after George W. Bush won the 2000 election and Donald Trump won the 2016 election without winning the popular vote.
Potential constitutional issues
States cannot set rules that determine outcomes in other states, risking dilution of votes and constitutional challenges.
Next steps
The compact could require Michigan and either Arizona or Nevada to join to reach 270 electoral votes.
The short version
Democrats gained control of six states with 71 electoral votes, which could require a national popular vote to win the presidency.
