When writing the Constitution, what were the two "obvious ways" suggested to select the President, and why did the Framers of the Constitution reject both these ways?
What are "swing voters" and what are "battleground states"?
According to some critics, what are three major problems with the Electoral College?
Three problems of the Electoral College are: 1. The winner of the popular vote is not guaranteed to win in the Electoral College vote. 2. Electors are not required to vote in agreement with the popular vote in their state ("faithless electors"). 3. Any election might have to be decided in the House of Representatives, an extremely partisan body today. (the Republican held House would likely give the presidency to the Republican candidate today). Two possible "fixes" of the Electoral College include: 1. Amending the Constitution to abolish the Electoral College, replacing it with a direct popular vote. 2. Requiring all state electors to cast votes in the Electoral College using the "proportional" system rather than the "winner take all" system.
Which roles of the President are being described in the following TWO scenarios: #1. "President Trump was in Duluth, Minnesota, today, campaigning for the Republican candidate running for Minnesota's open 8th District seat. #2: "President Trump sent a stern warning to the President of Iran today, saying that any strike against the nation of Israel what be considered an attack against the United States."
How was the need for change in the electoral college made clear in the elections of 1796 and 1800, both involving Thomas Jefferson?
In 1796, Jefferson became John Adams Vice President despite being "political rivals". In 1800, Jefferson and Aaron Burr tied in the electoral vote, and the House had a difficult time naming Jefferson the President.