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CONSTITUTION WEEK SPOTLIGHT

| September 19, 2021 1:00 AM

Today is Day Three of Constitution Week commemorating the signing of our Constitution on Sept. 17, 1787. The Electoral College became part of the Constitution in Article II, Section 1 as a compromise after America’s Founders spent months debating how to elect a president. Some argued that Congress should choose the president while others thought the decision should be made by popular vote of the citizens. Both sides had valid concerns. The Electoral College is a unique solution that provides a more equal voice for both large and small states. Without the Electoral College, presidential candidates might focus exclusively on densely populated urban areas. The Twelfth Amendment (1804) mandates that electors vote separately for president and vice president. The Fourtheenth Amendment (1868) bars unpardoned rebels from becoming electors and allows all males citizens over 21 years of age the right to vote. The Twenty-Third Amendment (1961) expanded the Electoral College to give the District of Columbia three electors.

Notable Quote: “The happy Union of these States is a wonder; their Constitution a miracle; their example the hope of Liberty throughout the world.” — James Madison

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This Constitution Spotlight was provided by Lt. George Farragut Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.