With regard to the at-large EVs: I see your point. I have no problem with it one way or the other. Both to the first place finisher in the statewide popular vote receives 60 percent of the vote, and otherwise one to each of the first and second place finishers.
The nationwide adoption of the Maine-Nebraska method has many advantages. Most immediately, it avoids the problem of “rotten boroughs,” such as our inner cities have become. There would actually be no reason to stuff the ballot in districts you’re going to win anyway, well, except to influence the award of the at-large EVs. In addition, it ties the President a little bit to the U.S. Congress, at least initially. This could help mitigate the impasse we have had, through most of our history, with divided government.
In the spirit of this reform of the Electoral College, we should amend the process by which the President and Vice President are elected if no ticket receives a majority of the votes in the Electoral College. From the current system (which was in place prior to the adoption of the 12th Amendment) to: receiving a simple majority of those present and voting at a joint session of the House and Senate, each member of each chamber casting one vote.
” In addition, it ties the President a little bit to the U.S. Congress, at least initially. This could help mitigate the impasse we have had, through most of our history, with divided government.”
Yes, it would tie the President a little bit to the House. That’s a BAD thing, though. The “impasse we have had” historically was by design. Separation of powers and such.