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HB 5359

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

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Vin Candelora and 4 co-sponsors

Connecticut would withdraw from the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, reverting to traditional Electoral College allocation if the compact activates without the state's participation.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Government Administration and Elections
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Bill Summary · HB 5359

Legislative bill overview

HB 5359 would withdraw Connecticut from the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact (NPVIC), an agreement among states to award their electoral votes to the national popular vote winner once states representing 270 electoral votes join the compact. Connecticut joined the NPVIC in 2018, committing to this system once it reaches the 270-vote threshold (currently at 209 electoral votes with 16 states and D.C. participating).

Why is this important

This bill directly addresses how Connecticut's electoral votes are allocated in presidential elections. If Connecticut withdraws and the compact reaches 270 votes anyway, Connecticut would revert to winner-take-all state allocation while other states award votes to the national popular vote winner—creating an asymmetrical system. The vote reflects fundamental disagreement about whether the Electoral College or national popular vote should determine presidents.

Potential points of contention

  • Federalism vs. national representation: Supporters argue states should control their own electoral processes; opponents contend the compact aims to ensure every vote counts equally nationwide
  • Timing and feasibility: Withdrawing after joining could undermine multistate cooperation, though the bill includes a withdrawal mechanism that theoretically exists within the compact
  • Political motivation: The bill's partisan sponsorship suggests it may reflect concerns that the compact disadvantages one party's electoral strategy rather than principled federalism arguments

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

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