Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HB05324

Introduced
1/22/21  
Refer
1/22/21  

Caption

An Act Proportionally Awarding The State's Electoral College Votes For President And Vice President Of The United States.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5324 would alter Connecticut's existing system of awarding Electoral College votes, which traditionally operates on a winner-takes-all basis. By introducing proportional representation, the bill aims to enhance voter engagement and fairness in the electoral process. Supporters believe that this method would provide a more accurate reflection of the state's voting preferences, while opponents fear that it could lead to a dilution of the state's voice in the national presidential election outcome, potentially undermining the effectiveness of their electoral power.

Summary

House Bill 5324 is a proposal aimed at amending the way Connecticut awards its Electoral College votes for the President and Vice President of the United States. The bill proposes a proportional system where the two electors corresponding to the state's Senate representation would cast their votes for the candidates who receive the highest total votes statewide, while the five electors corresponding to the state's congressional districts would cast their votes based on the highest total votes in their respective districts. This change seeks to align the awarding of electoral votes more closely with the popular vote within the state.

Contention

The introduction of proportional awarding of Electoral College votes is likely to generate significant debate among lawmakers and constituents. Proponents argue that the current winner-takes-all system is outdated and does not serve the democratic process well, particularly in a politically diverse state like Connecticut. Critics, particularly those concerned about electoral integrity and cohesiveness, may view the move as unnecessary and potentially confusing, as it deviates from the traditional method of voting. This could lead to discussions regarding its implications for fair representation and electoral outcomes in both state and federal elections.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05310

An Act Concerning Presidential Electors And The Certification Or Declaration Of Election Results.

CT SB00257

An Act Concerning Certification Of And Casting Of Ballots By Presidential Electors.

CT SB00107

An Act Updating Requirements For Construction Management Oversight At The University Of Connecticut, Pausing The Requirement For A Plan To Increase The Number Of Full-time Faculty At Public Institutions Of Higher Education And Replacing References To The President Of The Connecticut State Colleges And Universities With The Chancellor Of The Connecticut State Colleges And Universities.

CT SB00258

An Act Concerning The Legislative Commissioners' Recommendations For Minor And Technical Revisions To The Government Administration And Elections Statutes.

CT SB00254

An Act Concerning The Recommendations Of The Risk-limiting Audits Working Group.

CT HB05498

An Act Concerning Election Security And Transparency, The Counting Of Absentee Ballots, Absentee Voting For Certain Patients Of Nursing Homes, Security Of Certain Election Workers, State Elections Enforcement Commission Complaints, Ballots Made Available In Languages Other Than English And Various Other Revisions Related To Election Administration.

CT SB00001

An Act Concerning The Health And Safety Of Connecticut Residents.

CT HB05311

An Act Concerning The Counting Of Absentee Ballots.

CT SB00352

An Act Concerning The Right To View A Ballot During Recanvass Procedures.

CT HB05364

An Act Preserving Assets Of State Humane Institution Residents.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.