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Maine made a promise, and I don’t want us to be the first state to break it.
In 2024, Maine joined the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, agreeing that the candidate who wins the most votes across the whole country should become president. The compact now stands at 222 of the 270 electoral votes it needs to take effect, with Maine’s four among them.
Last year, a bill to pull Maine out of the compact passed the Maine House 76–71 and was long tabled in the state Senate. If it ever moves, Maine would become the first state ever to walk away from the compact — after giving its word.
Many believe the Electoral College is a relic of slavery. Smaller states need not worry about fair representation, because each state gets two senators no matter its population — that is already lopsided in favor of citizens in smaller states. And the Bill of Rights still applies to every American.
A Mainer’s vote for president should count the same as anyone else’s.
I have written to my own legislators and asked them to stand by Maine’s decision. I hope your readers will do the same.
Wilfred Langford
Stetson