Connecticut Senate Bill SB00752

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/11
• Refer: 1/25/11

Caption

An Act Concerning The Election Of President By National Popular Vote.

Impact

If enacted, SB00752 would significantly alter the current state law governing presidential elections in Connecticut. The bill reflects a growing sentiment among some lawmakers and constituents that the winner of the national popular vote should be the rightful winner of the presidency. This change would involve amending existing statutes to align Connecticut's electoral vote allocation with a national standard, potentially influencing how candidates campaign in the state and altering the perceived importance of local popular votes.

Summary

SB00752 is a legislative proposal aimed at reforming how Connecticut's electoral votes are allocated in presidential elections. Specifically, the bill seeks to mandate that Connecticut's representatives in the electoral college cast their votes for the candidate who receives the most votes nationally, rather than solely the candidate who wins the popular vote within Connecticut. This approach is part of a broader movement known as the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, which aims to ensure that the electoral college reflects the will of the voters on a national level.

Contention

The debate surrounding SB00752 is marked by contention between advocates of the National Popular Vote movement and those who support maintaining the current electoral system. Proponents argue that the bill would make every vote count equally, regardless of state boundaries, thereby enhancing the democratic process. Conversely, opponents of the bill contend that the electoral college protects the interests of smaller states and ensures a balanced political representation. They express concerns that this proposed change could diminish the significance of individual state elections and lead to campaigning focused disproportionately on populous urban areas.