posted on November 7, 2000 09:36:18 PM
Forgive my ignorance, but I have a question. I understand the basic concept of the electoral college. I still do not understand how that they are projecting so far ahead when most votes are not even in yet? Heather
[ edited by hcross on Nov 7, 2000 09:55 PM ]
posted on November 7, 2000 09:51:55 PM
The candidate that receives the majority of votes in a state gets all of that state's electoral votes. It is possible for a candidate to receive the majority of popular votes nationwide and still lose the electoral vote. (The winner of the majority of electoral votes gets to be President.) Hope that makes sense...
edited to say that I'm glad James clarified that some. And to say that the forecasted winners are computer projections based on the early returns. As you saw, they are not necessarily accurate in predicting the winning candidate.
[ edited by debbielennon on Nov 7, 2000 10:29 PM ]
posted on November 7, 2000 09:56:08 PM
25 states have provisions in their constitutions that make it mandatory for the electors to vote how the state majority voted (in the others it is technically possible for electors to vote differently, but it just "doesn't" happen).
posted on November 7, 2000 10:41:02 PM
Many of the projections tonight came from exit polls. The exit polls don't take into account any of the absentee votes though.
I don't really get it either since, obviously, these really early projections are very fallible. I understand the desire for a media outlet to be first with news, but think it's inexcusable for them to be projecting the turnout in Florida when half of the state isn't even through voting.
posted on November 8, 2000 01:07:19 AM
The electors are chosen by the parties. Whichever party gets the most votes has their guy/gal cast their electoral votes.
edited 'cause it's 2 in the frickin morning and I'm still watching this!!!!
[ edited by UpInTheHills on Nov 8, 2000 01:08 AM ]
