Extension

Have students read the following quotation from Andrew Jackson’s first annual Message to Congress, in which he proposed eliminating the Electoral College. This argument has persisted through American history. Have them compare and contrast Jackson’s argument against the Electoral College with modern-day arguments against it.

 

Our system of government was by its framers deemed an experiment, and they therefore consistently provided a mode of remedying its defects. To the people belongs the right of electing their Chief Magistrate; it was never designed that their choice should in any case be defeated, either by the intervention of electoral colleges or by the agency confided, under certain contingencies, to the House of Representatives. Experience proves that in proportion as agents to execute the will of the people are multiplied there is danger of their wishes being frustrated. Some may be unfaithful; all are liable to err. So far, therefore, as the people can with convenience speak, it is safer for them to express their own will.

George Washington 1

George Washington was the only President in US history who did not officially represent a political party.

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