New Jersey Assembly Bill A139

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Repeals the "Agreement Among the States to Elect the President by National Popular Vote."

Impact

The immediate effect of this bill is the reinstatement of New Jersey's electoral vote allocation method, which reflects the preference of its voters in presidential elections. This change addresses concerns that the prior agreement undermined the state's individual voting mechanism, with critics arguing it disenfranchised local voters by disregarding their choices in favor of national trends. By revalidating the state's policy, supporters claim it fortifies democratic principles.

Summary

Assembly Bill A139 seeks to repeal the 'Agreement Among the States to Elect the President by National Popular Vote,' which previously mandated that New Jersey allocate its electoral votes to the presidential candidate who wins the national popular vote, regardless of the outcome within the state. This repeal signifies a shift back to the traditional winner-takes-all system, where electoral votes are awarded to the candidate who secures the most votes in New Jersey.

Contention

Opponents of the agreement highlighted that it posed a risk of eroding the significance of individual state elections and could lead to presidential candidates focusing more on populous states rather than engaging with a broader electorate. The repeal resonates with those advocating for state autonomy in electoral matters, presenting a renewed dialogue around the balance between state and national elections in the context of U.S. democracy. Critics of the repeal might contend it ignores the shifting dynamics of voter sentiment and the growing desire for a more representative democracy that reflects the popular vote nationwide.