WASHINGTON, D.C – As electors meet today in their respective state capitols to cast their ballots for president and vice president, Independent Women’s Law Center and Independent Women’s Forum celebrate the Electoral College, a uniquely American institution.

From the time of our nation’s founding, Americans have been politically divided. In presidential politics, national vote totals are often close. But, by aggregating the results of the popular votes of each state, the Electoral College creates clear outcomes and decisive victories.

Without the Electoral College, losing candidates in close elections would have the incentive to demand recounts in precincts all across the country — hoping to pick up a few votes here and a few votes there, until the outcome is altered.  

By contrast, the Electoral College provides clear margins of victory, eliminating the nightmarish possibility of a nationwide recount and bolstering the political legitimacy of the winner.

Jennifer C. Braceras, director of Independent Women’s Law Center, said, “In times of great national division, the Electoral College provides the finality and legitimacy necessary to ensure the peaceful transfer of power.”

Inez Stepman, senior policy analyst at Independent Women’s Forum, added, ”The Electoral College prevents mob rule, protects the rights of the minority, and makes us truly a nation of united states. The advantages of this system should appeal to all Americans, regardless of whether their candidate won or lost and regardless of party affiliation.”

To learn more, join Jenifer and Inez for a Facebook Live discussion with Trent England of Save Our States on Tuesday, December 15, at 2:00pm ET.

Read IWLC’s Legal Policy Focus on the Electoral College HERE.

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Independent Women’s Forum is dedicated to developing and advancing policies that aren’t just well intended, but actually enhance people’s freedom, choices, and opportunities. 

Independent Women’s Law Center advocates for equal opportunity, individual liberty, and respect for the American constitutional order.