Representation and the Electoral College

Abstract

Abstract This book evaluates the Electoral College as it relates to relevant theories of representation. The purpose of the study is to help readers understand the ways in which the institution does or does not align with expectations relating to representative democracy. In the aftermath of the 2016 election, heated calls to abolish the Electoral College were made in large part because the winning candidate received nearly 3 million fewer votes from across the country than his opponent. At the same time, many lauded the institution for working as intended—particularly as it relates to federalism. The Electoral College is a unique institution. It is also one of the most debated institutions in American politics. Many arguments concerning the body—it protects less populated states, it helps preserve federalism, it violates the one-person, one-vote principle, it forces candidates to produce broad-based coalitions—rarely receive the depth of attention they deserve. This book sets out to do this by examining the origin, evolution, and practice of the Electoral College. Much of the controversy relating to the institution revolves around whether we rely on the original or the evolved Electoral College to inform our perspective. Understanding the origin and evolution of the body allows us to more appropriately evaluate contemporary arguments over the institution. In addition to looking at common arguments relating to the Electoral College, this study pays particular attention to its role in the 2016 election and the often overlooked but essential position of presidential electors.