WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 5682

AN ACT CONCERNING THE AGREEMENT AMONG THE STATES TO ELECT THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES BY NATIONAL POPULAR VOTE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kurt Vail

Connecticut would join the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, directing its electoral votes to the national popular vote winner once enough states join to reach 270 electoral votes.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Government Administration and Elections
#interstatecompacts #presidentialelections #voting
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 5682

Legislative bill overview

HB 5682 would authorize Connecticut to join the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact (NPVIC), an agreement among states to award their electoral votes to the candidate who wins the national popular vote, rather than the state's popular vote. This effectively changes how Connecticut participates in presidential elections by bypassing the current state-by-state Electoral College system. The compact only takes effect once states representing 270 electoral votes (a majority) have joined.

Why is this important

This bill addresses a fundamental tension in American presidential elections: the possibility that the national popular vote winner loses the presidency. Proponents argue it ensures equal weight for every voter regardless of state. It also affects campaign strategy, as candidates would focus less on "swing states" and more on national voter outreach. Connecticut's participation is one piece of a larger interstate movement that currently includes 17 states plus Washington D.C., representing 209 electoral votes.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional concerns: Critics argue the compact may conflict with the Framers' design and could face legal challenges regarding state sovereignty and the constitutionality of states effectively ceding electoral powers
  • Federalism debate: Opponents contend this undermines the state-based system and disadvantages less populous states by shifting influence toward high-population centers
  • Incomplete implementation risk: The compact won't activate until 270 electoral votes join; Connecticut binding itself now creates uncertainty about whether the system will ever function as intended

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.