As it is now, it takes 270 of 538 electoral votes to win. Candidates cannot ignore small states that have slightly more electoral clout than than have direct-vote clout. It has been estimated that 22 small states have less population than California but nearly twice the electoral impact. Besides opposition from most states, the proposal to do away with the Electoral College also would be opposed by the Democratic and Republican parties because they know the current system works to squash third-party challenges. If the current system looks like it is producing a regional presidency, a direct-vote election would guarantee regional presidencies.
Electoral reform is needed desperately.
But the Electoral College is here to stay. This material shall not be published or redistributed directly or indirectly in any medium.