National Popular Vote Compact Nears Activation, Just 48 Electoral Votes Short

The National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, which would award participating states' electoral votes to the national popular-vote winner, is now only 48 votes short of the 270 required for activation. After Virginia's governor signed the legislation, the agreement encompasses 18 Democratic-leaning states plus the District of Columbia, amounting to 222 electoral votes. Advocates are focusing on securing passage in Arizona, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, states that together would push the total well beyond the threshold.

Lobbyists from both parties are intensifying outreach to lawmakers, with Democrats for the Electoral College emphasizing fairness after the 2016 and 2000 elections, and Republican-aligned consultants highlighting one-person-one-vote principles. Funding for the effort largely comes from liberal donors, while groups like Save Our States aim to persuade Democratic legislators of the compact's importance. Critics maintain the compact does not replace the Electoral College and that a constitutional amendment remains the proper route for reform.