[Atlas Sneezed]

If we used the popular vote, there would be a shift away from over-weighting of the least populous states (because the number of electoral votes is proportional to population, plus two per state) which would hurt Conservatives.

But this would not cause attantion to be focused to large costal states, precisely. It would cause attention to be focused on MEDIA MARKETS. We'd be talking about "swing metros" instead of "swing states."

Instead of fighting for states with even splits based on party, they'd be focusing where the undecided/independent vote was greatest. They would leave alone markets where votes were pretty much cast in stone. For instance, largely black markets would be ignored, since Dems take them for granted, and Repubs have little hope to prifit from advertising.

[suzyq5558]

If we did away with the electoral college than then states like Oregon wouldnt matter much and it would supress votes.

[hinckley buzzard]

The electoral college is the last true vestige of the federal republic this nation was meant to be. It should be strengthened, not eliminated. State legislatures should become active once again in choosing electors, and the presidential election restored to what it was supposed to be--based on the votes of the States, not the Peepul.

[Arkinsaw]

If the Electoral College is eliminated then candidates will be working 24 hours a day to drive up high margins for themselves in urban areas.

Right now they angle for 51% and spend any other efforts trying to pick up other places. If this occurs they will spend the whole campaign trying to drive it to 52%, then 53%, etc. Because everything over 50% plus one still counts.

So you have 60% of the vote in New York. Its still worth more trying to get an additional 5% there than it is to spend money in Wyoming.

Its more cost effective to go for the extra percentage in New York because the voters are there, easier to reach, and less costly to reach per voter. Plus, as you try to gain more there, the voters you already have are reinforced as well because they see the candidate there also.

Its a horrible, horrible idea. With even far worse consequences than the direct election of Senators.