H.J.Res.102 - Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States providing that the Senate is made more representative by adding twelve Senators to be elected using a national popular vote, and providing for twelve Electors at-large for President and Vice-President, who shall cast their ballots for the respective winners of the national popular vote. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.J.Res.102 proposes a constitutional amendment to add twelve Senators elected by national popular vote and twelve at-large presidential electors who would vote for the national popular vote winner. The resolution aims to make the Senate and presidential elections more representative of the national popular vote. It outlines the election process for these new senators and electors, including vacancy procedures and eligibility requirements.
Expected Effects
If ratified, this amendment would alter the composition of the Senate and the Electoral College. It would introduce a new element of national popular vote into both bodies, potentially shifting the balance of power between states and the overall influence of popular opinion in federal elections.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Representation: Could lead to a Senate more reflective of the national popular vote.
- Enhanced Voter Engagement: May encourage higher voter turnout in presidential elections.
- Fairer Presidential Elections: Aims to ensure the presidential winner reflects the national popular vote.
- Reduced State Disparity: Could diminish the disproportionate influence of smaller states in the Senate and Electoral College.
- Modernized Electoral System: Updates the electoral system to better align with contemporary democratic principles.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Reduced State Power: Could diminish the influence of individual states, particularly smaller ones, in the Senate and presidential elections.
- Increased Centralization: Shifts power towards the federal government and away from the states.
- Potential for Political Instability: Could exacerbate political divisions if the national popular vote differs significantly from state-level results.
- Implementation Challenges: Establishing and administering a national popular vote system may present logistical and legal challenges.
- Unintended Consequences: Altering the fundamental structure of the Senate and Electoral College could have unforeseen impacts on the balance of power and political landscape.
Constitutional Alignment
This resolution proposes an amendment to the Constitution, which is itself a constitutionally prescribed process under Article V. The proposed changes, however, could be seen as conflicting with the original intent of the Senate as representing the states (Article I, Section 3) and the Electoral College as a balance between state and popular vote. The introduction of nationally elected senators and at-large electors challenges the federalist structure established by the Constitution.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).