Feature  

The Electoral College: What’s to be Done

During an opening panel at an Ash Center symposium on the future of the Electoral College, scholars examined the history behind how the US adopted its peculiar centuries-old system of choosing presidential election winners – and what should be done to reform or even abolish the practice today.

A presidential electoral in Washington State ceremonially signs an electoral college ballot
A presidential elector from Washington State signs an electoral college ballot following the 2020 US presidential elections. Photo courtesy the Office of the Secretary of State of Washington State/Washington State Archives.

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Congressman Jamie Raskin speaks at an Ash Center conference on the Electoral College

Jamie Raskin on the future of the Electoral College

At the Ash Center, Congressman Jamie Raskin makes the case that the US should finally move to a direct popular vote for selecting presidential winners.

Moving beyond the Electoral College

Behind the Book: Why Do We Still Have The Electoral College?

In his latest book, "Why Do We Still Have The Electoral College?" Alex Keyssar examines the myriad reasons that we still follow with what he calls, "a process that does not conform to democratic principles the nation has publicly championed."

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Does Ranked Choice Voting Create Barriers for Minority Voters?
Vote Here placard at polling station

Commentary

Does Ranked Choice Voting Create Barriers for Minority Voters?

Ranked choice voting (RCV) aims to expand voter choice and improve representation, but Nolan McCarty’s research warns it could have unintended negative effects on minority communities’ representation and influence.