Understanding the U.S. Electoral College

The video explains the U.S. Electoral College system, highlighting its impact on presidential elections. It discusses the discrepancies in voter influence across states, particularly in swing states, and analyzes the 2016 election. The historical context of the Electoral College is explored, including its origins and attempts to reform it. The video concludes with a call to vote responsibly.

Why are national polls not a reliable indicator of the U.S. presidential election outcome?

• They focus only on swing states.

• They are conducted too early in the election cycle.

• They do not account for the electoral college system.

• They only consider the popular vote.

How is the number of electoral votes for each state determined?

• Based on the state's land area.

• Based on the state's population and congressional representation.

• Determined by the state's governor.

• Equal for all states.

Which states tend to have more influence in the electoral college?

• States with large populations.

• States with a high number of swing voters.

• States with fewer people per electoral vote.

• States that consistently vote for one party.

What is the significance of swing states in U.S. presidential elections?

• They are the first to report election results.

• Their voting outcome is unpredictable and can swing to either party.

• They have the most electoral votes.

• They always vote for the incumbent president.

How does the winner-takes-all system affect the distribution of electoral votes?

• It splits votes equally between candidates.

• It requires a runoff election if no candidate wins a majority.

• It gives all electoral votes to the candidate with the majority in a state.

• It allows for proportional distribution of votes.

What was the three-fifths clause?

• A rule that allowed states to split their electoral votes.

• A law that required all states to have the same number of electoral votes.

• A compromise counting enslaved people as three-fifths of a person for representation.

• A policy that banned slavery in northern states.

Why have some political leaders historically defended the electoral college?

• It benefits states with smaller populations.

• It ensures a fair distribution of votes across all states.

• It simplifies the voting process.

• It has historically benefited certain political groups.

What is one reason the electoral college has been difficult to replace?

• It is favored by the Supreme Court.

• It has unanimous support from all states.

• It requires a constitutional amendment to change.

• It is enshrined in the Bill of Rights.

What is a common criticism of the electoral college?

• It is biased towards urban areas.

• It is too complex for voters to understand.

• It gives disproportionate power to smaller states.

• It requires too many resources to maintain.

What is one argument for keeping the electoral college?

• It prevents voter fraud.

• It is easier to manage than a popular vote.

• It ensures that all states have a voice in the election.

• It is a tradition that dates back to the founding of the U.S.