Special Poll
With early voting approaching, lawmakers have limited time to gather the necessary support for the change.
Meeting Details:
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) met with Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen and about a dozen Republican state lawmakers on Wednesday.
Purpose: Push for a change in Nebraska’s method of allocating electoral votes.
Why It Matters:
Nebraska and Maine are the only states that don’t use a winner-take-all approach for electoral votes.
Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to win a single electoral vote from the Omaha congressional district, which could be decisive in a close election.
GOP’s Goal:
Graham and Gov. Pillen aim to switch to a winner-take-all system, ensuring all electoral votes go to one candidate (likely Trump).
This change could prevent Harris from claiming the single vote that could be crucial in a tight race.
Challenges:
Republicans haven’t secured enough support to overcome procedural obstacles.
As of now, Harris looks likely to win the swing district’s vote.
What Happened:
Graham met with lawmakers at the governor’s mansion, urging them to support the change.
A spokesperson confirmed the meeting but didn’t clarify if Graham was acting for the Trump campaign.
Reports suggest most senators present supported the change, but not enough to move forward.
Governor’s Position:
Gov. Pillen stated he wouldn’t call a special session to change vote apportionment unless there was clear support from 33 senators.
Previous efforts were blocked by procedural issues earlier in the year.
Support Levels:
Reports indicate 30 to 31 senators support the change, but the final votes required remain uncertain.
Governor’s Statement:
Pillen emphasized his support for aligning Nebraska with 48 other states by awarding all electoral votes to the statewide popular vote winner.
He expressed willingness to call a special session if sufficient support materializes before the 2024 election.
Current System:
Nebraska’s current system allocates one electoral vote per congressional district and two to the statewide winner.
Maine uses a similar system.
Potential Impact:
Lawmakers in Maine have suggested they may adopt a winner-take-all approach if Nebraska does.
Trump’s View:
Trump has endorsed the change, saying it’s the right move for Nebraska.