Republican Governor Jim Pillen of Nebraska has stated that he will not push for changes to state law that would alter how the state allocates its five electoral votes. This decision comes after a proposal to change the allocation of votes failed to secure the necessary two-thirds majority support in the state legislature. Nebraska currently splits its electoral votes, with two going to the statewide winner and one awarded to the winner in each congressional district.
In the 2020 election, Democratic candidate Joe Biden won Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District, marking a potential loss for former President Donald Trump. Trump has expressed his intention to win over the electoral vote again in the upcoming election. With a small voter registration advantage in the 2nd District and a significant percentage of unaffiliated voters, both parties see the single electoral vote as potentially crucial.
Nebraska Democratic Party Chair Jane Kleeb supports the split electoral vote system, arguing that it ensures the outcome represents the will of the people without interference. Democratic state Senator Mike McDonnell, who previously opposed changing the allocation system, has maintained his stance, stating that voters should have the final decision on such a change through a constitutional amendment.
Despite efforts to change the allocation system, the lack of support from key lawmakers has hindered the process. The push for change has faced challenges in the past due to the unique requirement of a two-thirds majority in Nebraska’s Legislature. As the 2024 election approaches, the debate over Nebraska’s electoral vote allocation continues.
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