Maine House Approves Withdrawal from National Popular Vote Compact

The Maine House of Representatives passed a bill to withdraw from the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, which would assign Maine's electoral votes to the winner of the national popular vote once enough states join the pact. Sponsored by Republican Rep. Barbara Bagshaw with some Democratic support, the bill reflects concerns that the compact would diminish Maine's electoral influence and silence rural voters, as the state's current system splits electoral votes by congressional district, a method unique along with Nebraska. Proponents of the compact argue it would make the presidential election more democratic by ensuring the presidency goes to the nationwide popular vote winner and reducing focus on swing states. The compact currently includes 17 states and Washington, D.C., totaling 209 electoral votes, short of the 270 needed to take effect. Maine Governor Janet Mills allowed the original bill to join the compact to become law without her signature, emphasizing the ongoing debate. The bill now proceeds to the Senate for further consideration.