National popular vote approved by Senate

OLYMPIA – Few have forgotten the 2000 presidential election when Al Gore won the national popular vote but not the presidency. Today, the Washington Senate took a step closer to ensuring this never happens again.

In a 30 to 18 vote, the Senate approved Senate Bill 5628 sponsored by Sen. Eric Oemig, D-Kirkland. The bill requires all of Washington’s Electoral College votes be awarded to the presidential candidate who receives the most popular votes in the country as a whole. The measure would take effect only when it is enacted, in identical form, by enough states to possess a majority of electoral votes – or enough to elect a president.

“This measure means every vote counts. Whether you are in a tiny minority, or in a super majority, your vote will make a difference.” Oemig said. “It doesn’t eliminate the Electoral College. It follows the constitution and simply directs the Electoral College to cast their vote in favor of the people’s candidate.”

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