1. What is the Electoral College? 2. In 1964, it was decided that the electoral college would consist of 538 votes. Why do you think they decided on that number? What is the benefit of including the three additional seats from the District of Columbia?

3. We can find a description of the electoral college (in article II, section I, clause II) in what historical document?

4. The electoral college is known to assist small states as well as geographically large states with small populations. Do you think that the electoral college benefits the small states? What other system could be implemented to help states with small populations?

5. How might a state lose (or gain) one of its electoral votes?

6. If it is possible to win the presidency by winning 11 large states, why do you think candidates pay attention to smaller states? Can you think of additional strategies that would benefit a Democrat or a Republican specifically?

7. If a candidate receives zero votes in 39 states, he/she can still be elected president if he/she gains the popular vote in 11 of 12 remaining states. Which state is not included in one of the 12 states that could win the presidency?

8. What are safe states?

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