Since the national popular vote was first recorded in 1824, there have been four presidential elections where the winner of the Electoral College lost the popular vote: Donald Trump (R) in 2016, George W. Bush (R) in 2000, Benjamin Harrison (R) in 1888, and Rutherford B. Hayes (R) in 1876. Briefly outline the function of the Electoral College and explain why the Founders felt it necessary in the first place. What are the arguments for using the popular vote instead of the Electoral College? According to recent public opinion polls, do Americans favor keeping or abolishing the Electoral College (identify which groups support which position)? What are some of the current proposals for reforming the Electoral College? Do you think the Electoral College should be maintained in its current form, reformed in some way, or replaced by the national popular vote? [Hint: Pew Research is a good source for public opinion data.]
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