
With the controversial election that happened not so long ago, the electoral college still remains a divisive issue for voters. For students, like the students at Farmington High School, they will be the next generation of voters.
Reforming the Electoral College is something that can help strengthen our student’s confidence and make our elections fairer. When we can ensure that each state is counted based on population, and not land, we can ensure that we will truly get the answer that America wants. Some political figures have spoken out saying, “It’s undemocratic,” Pete Buttigieg, former Secretary of Transportation.
Why does this matter to students?
Junior, Amelia Futey said, “Reforming the electoral college matters to me because I want my vote to count equally to the vote of every other American. The current system unfairly distributes votes by using the ‘winner-takes-it-all’ system, leaving the election primarily to swing states.”
For many voters and future voters, this isn’t a left versus right issue, this is more about fairness and transparency in our elections.
However, not all voters are in favor of the reformation.
As listed on electoralcollege.info, the website owner and a FHS debate coach, Andrew Hahn writes,“The winner-takes-all allocation of electoral votes, employed by most states, has been criticized for disenfranchising voters whose preferred candidate did not secure a statewide majority. However, defenders assert that this mechanism enhances the federal nature of the election process, emphasizing the role of states as distinct political entities. It further incentivizes candidates to build broad, diverse coalitions that appeal to entire states rather than focusing solely on populous metropolitan areas, thus reinforcing national cohesion.”
Overall, though we all differ in opinions, if we can reform the electoral college, it will be beneficial for students as the next generation of voters. After all, fairness should be first.