Time to create more equity

Fifteen other jurisdictions have signed onto the National Popular Vote Compact. They have chosen to use the power granted to states through the U.S. Constitution to change the Electoral College system. They are leading the country towards much needed change. Why should Colorado not join them?

If we are truly a state that believes in racial equity, it is time to look at differences in how votes count.

With the current system, not all votes are equal. In particular, votes cast by people of color are worth far less than white votes.

“In 2016, Wyoming, where 84 percent of the population is white, had one electoral vote for every 187,875 residents. California, where 62 percent of the population is made up of minorities, had one electoral vote for every 677,344 residents.” (Benjamin Waddell, 2020)

In addition, with the number of swing states rapidly decreasing, presidential candidates are spending the majority of their time and efforts in predominantly white swing states like Michigan, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Arizona, and Florida.

The current Electoral College system is outdated. It does not provide for the development of urban areas and diversity our nation holds today. To not acknowledge the flaws in the system is to turn our backs on racial equity.

While there are many ways to change the Electoral College system, we cannot continue to wait. It is time for the voters in our state to take a step towards ensuring all votes are equal and vote “yes” on national popular vote.

SHELBY BATES Boulder