Political Science

The Congressional District Method (CDM) adopted by Maine and Nebraska for choosing delegates to the Electoral College is an attempt to actualize the principle of one-man one- vote. It abandons the practice of winner takes it all and tries to apportion the presidential vote according to the way voters cast their ballots. Whereas this method has its advantages, there is a great risk that it could balkanize the state between those who voted for and those who voted against the president.

In certain circumstances, this method may serve to balance the electoral process and give a voice to those who are perennially shut out because of the policy of winner takes all. Party affiliation may consistently determine the way a state votes for presidential candidates, ignoring the views of a considerable number of people who support a different party (Linton  Southcott, 1998). Republican dominated states are more likely to vote for a Republican candidate irrespective of whether their candidate is the best person for the job. This policy ignores the weight of other voters ballots and promotes mob democracy where the greatest number will always achieve their goals.

The CDM gives minority groups a voice provided they dominate the vote in the congressional district (Linton  Southcott, 1998).  A combination of such votes throughout the United States can propel an independent candidate to the top seat and break the traditional voting pattern that pits Republicans against Democrats.

In situations where the vote is evenly split between two candidates, CDM effectively represents the view of the electorate. All electors will feel satisfied that their choice was represented at the Electoral College and that their vote mattered in the determination of the next president.

In conclusion, the CDM of choosing delegates to the Electoral College has its pros and cons. Minority groups stand a better chance of being heard at the national level because their vote will inform the incoming president of their issues. The real danger lies in dividing the state on partisan lines and increasing political tensions because of electoral differences.