IT actually makes a lot of sense for the NYT to argue against the Electoral College. Without it, a person could run for president, and visit exactly 3 states, and still win the election. NY, CA, and TX. Even amongst those 3 states, you’d really only need to campaign in a handful of cities. This would be a big boost to the voting power of those 3 states.
Texas? With their historical voting against the liberal agenda? Romney won Texas four years ago, and McCain eight years back.
Illinois downgraded?