In a recent California fundraiser hosted by Gov. Gavin Newsom, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz expressed his support for moving away from the Electoral College system in favor of a national popular vote. This statement sparked immediate backlash from the Trump campaign and prominent Republicans who accused Walz of questioning the legitimacy of a potential Trump victory in the upcoming election.
Despite the controversy, a spokesperson for the Harris-Walz campaign clarified that Walz believes in the importance of every vote in the Electoral College and is focused on winning battleground states to secure the 270 electoral votes needed for victory. The campaign official emphasized that getting rid of the Electoral College is not a position the campaign holds.
The Electoral College has faced criticism after instances where the popular vote winner did not secure the presidency, such as in the 2016 and 2000 elections. A recent survey by the Pew Research Center showed that 63% of Americans prefer the popular vote determining the election outcome over the current Electoral College system.
Despite the ongoing debate, changing the Electoral College would require a Constitutional amendment, making it a complex and challenging process.
Contributor: Mary Cunningham
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