Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is one major argument made by supporters of the Electoral College?
What is one major argument made by supporters of the Electoral College?
- It ensures representation for less populated areas in presidential elections. (correct)
- It encourages more people to vote regardless of state alignment.
- It simplifies the voting process for citizens nationwide.
- It guarantees the popularity of the winning candidate.
How many times in US history has a candidate won the electoral vote but lost the popular vote?
How many times in US history has a candidate won the electoral vote but lost the popular vote?
- Three times
- Ten times
- Two times
- Five times (correct)
What is a consequence of the Electoral College that detracts from voter turnout in certain states?
What is a consequence of the Electoral College that detracts from voter turnout in certain states?
- Electoral votes are not awarded on a proportional basis.
- Heavily leaning party states may discourage opposition voters. (correct)
- Voters feel their votes carry more weight in competitive states.
- The voting process is deemed overly complicated.
What typically follows a presidential election before the new president's term officially begins?
What typically follows a presidential election before the new president's term officially begins?
Which of the following reasons do critics use to advocate for abolishing the Electoral College?
Which of the following reasons do critics use to advocate for abolishing the Electoral College?
What is the primary purpose of the Electoral College in the US Presidential election process?
What is the primary purpose of the Electoral College in the US Presidential election process?
How many electoral votes are needed for a candidate to win the presidency?
How many electoral votes are needed for a candidate to win the presidency?
Which of the following statements about the winner-takes-all system is true?
Which of the following statements about the winner-takes-all system is true?
What factor determines the number of electoral votes each state receives?
What factor determines the number of electoral votes each state receives?
In the context of the US Presidential election, what does the term 'electors' refer to?
In the context of the US Presidential election, what does the term 'electors' refer to?
Which state has the maximum number of electoral votes, and why?
Which state has the maximum number of electoral votes, and why?
What is a potential outcome due to the winner-takes-all electoral system?
What is a potential outcome due to the winner-takes-all electoral system?
What ensures that smaller states receive a minimum level of electoral representation?
What ensures that smaller states receive a minimum level of electoral representation?
Flashcards
Electoral College
Electoral College
Americans vote for electors, not directly for the president. These electors then vote for the president on behalf of their state.
Electoral Votes
Electoral Votes
The number of electoral votes a state gets is based on its population and number of senators (always 2). Larger states have more electoral votes, smaller states have fewer.
Electors
Electors
The group of electors from each state who vote for the president and vice president.
Winner-Takes-All System
Winner-Takes-All System
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Electoral Vote Threshold
Electoral Vote Threshold
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Popular Vote
Popular Vote
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Possible Disparity
Possible Disparity
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Electoral Vote Importance
Electoral Vote Importance
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Winning the popular vote but losing the presidency
Winning the popular vote but losing the presidency
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Transition period
Transition period
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Inauguration ceremony
Inauguration ceremony
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States with large populations and electoral votes
States with large populations and electoral votes
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Study Notes
US Presidential Election Process
- The US Presidential election is held on November 5, 2024.
- Candidates are Kamala Harris and Donald Trump.
- Winning the popular vote is important, but winning Electoral College votes is crucial for the presidency.
Electoral College
- The Electoral College is a process where electors vote for the president and vice-president.
- Each state gets electoral votes based on its senators (2) and House Representatives (proportional to population).
- California has 54 electoral votes (52 Representatives, 2 Senators).
- Smaller states have at least 3 electoral votes.
- A candidate needs 270 electoral votes to win the presidency (out of 538).
Winner-Take-All System
- Most states have a "winner-take-all" system.
- The candidate who wins the popular vote in a state receives all of that state's electoral votes.
- This system can allow a candidate to win the presidency without winning the national popular vote.
Electoral College Controversy
- Some argue the Electoral College should be abolished as it can undermine the principle of the candidate favored by most of the country.
- It can deter people from voting in states strongly leaning towards one party.
- Others support the Electoral College as it gives smaller states an equal voice to larger states.
Presidential Transition
- Election results are typically announced on election night.
- A transition period follows, where the incoming president prepares for office.
- The new president's term begins on January 20 of the following year.
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