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Richard Epstein considers the arguments for and against the Electoral College, describes how the process of choosing a president has changed over the years, and provides prescriptions for electoral reform.
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Published in: Elections
Epstein once again challenges my notions of Constitutional institutions in a profound way and manages to convince me. I went from thinking that, like the President/VP elections, the Electoral College needed a revamp after Madisonian “factions” have become the norm to thinking that perhaps the college protects us from a much worse scenario. Epstein is one of the most brilliant podcasters on the Ricochet network, without a doubt.
Great listen. That you and Mr. Epstein covered more relevant electoral theory in 20 minutes than MSM could ever generate in a 24 hour cycle is both a testament to this podcast–and why I drink heavily during elections. As a Libertarian, I of course have some ideas to interject. The ‘Top-bottom’ change mentioned is simply not feasible due to our fetishistic view of the Executive Office. Its one that Thomas Paine predicted would become the greatest divisive force in a representative democracy. However, there are many other Bottom oriented features to our Democracy that can be repaired. Gerrymandering is one of the oldest party deviant behaviors there is. However, merely banging a drum doesn’t have the clarion call to justice we would all hope. In more typical elections, the votership believes the advantage is necessary–but during an election with such negativity–this is the opportune time for gifted Libertarian spokespeople to dissect House Incumbents in every district. Granted, with the savvy to modify the message given geographic cultural demands.
As for the Electoral College, I still support it despite the Bush v Gore debacle, and the Rutherford B Hayes theft. Florida being the state of both transgressions says to me they were facilitated partly by the lack of strenuous, local votership. However, simple majority victories present unprecedented challenges, especially when electing our Commander in Chief. I have other thoughts, but luckily for the thread I am restricted by my taciturn Coolidge status.