The Supreme Court made a very big decision this Monday. As they ruled unanimously that states can require presidential electors to back their states’ popular vote winner in the Electoral College. Just under four months just before 2020-elections, the ruling leaves in place laws in 32 states and the District of Columbia.
It further binds their share of the 538 electors to vote for the states’ popular-vote winner. And this unanimous decision in the “faithless elector” cases was a big defeat for those who wanted to transform the Electoral College. It also defeated all those who believed a win would lead to presidential elections based on the popular or total number of votes.
Also, the justices had scheduled the arguments for the case in spring. As they wanted to resolve the issue before the election. In order, to ensure smooth functioning amid a potential political crisis after the country votes.
The Supreme Court rules big decision for presidential electors
The Supreme Court heard arguments via a telephonic conversation in May amid coronavirus pandemic. But, justices invoked fears of bribery and chaos if electors could cast their ballots regardless of the popular vote outcome in their states. The three Hilary Clinton electors filed an issue that arose in lawsuits in Washington and in Colorado. They refused to vote for her despite her popular vote win in both states. In so doing, they wanted to persuade enough electors to deny the Trump presidency. The federal appeals court in Denver ruled that electors can vote as they please, rejecting arguments that they must choose the popular-vote winner.
In Washington, the state Supreme Court upheld a $1,000 fine against the three electors and rejected their claims. Thus, the court’s decision had a great impact on the minds of citizens. However, the citizens have mixed reactions to the decision. What are your views? Do let us know in the comments section below.
