I'm as heartbroken as the next person over last Tuesday's election results. I've been seeing a lot of articles circulating Facebook and Twitter that give the impression that, despite the results, Hillary Clinton can still pull out a win and become our president. Change.com is calling out to the Electoral College with their petition "Electoral College: Make Hillary Clinton President on December 19". They're pulling people in by saying that Clinton still has a chance because she won the popular vote. As much as I'd love this to be true, the fact is that Donald Trump will take the place of Barack Obama as the President of the United States of America. And here's why:
1. The electors in the Electoral College are appointed. The Electoral College is a group of people who are elected to cast votes for the President and the Vice President. Electors are appointed by the political parties in each state, and the position of an elector is typically a reward (so to speak) for years of dedication and support to that party. The chances of them switching parties -- though possible -- is slim.
2. Electors could face high fines if they change their votes. Some states don't have laws that govern their electors; electors wouldn't be penalized if they decided to change their votes. However, states like Washington have laws that make it illegal for electors to change their votes, and other states will fine electors upwards of $1,000 if they change their votes.
3. The names and addresses of all electors are public record. If you so desired, you could do the research and find them. This could put their lives, and the lives of their families, at risk. I can't think of anyone who would be willing to do that.
4. The number of electors Trump has. Donald Trump is likely to have 306 electoral votes. Hillary Clinton will only have 232. Thinking about one or two electors jumping ship and changing their vote is one thing, but 32 electors would have to change their minds and vote for Clinton in order for Trump to lose his position. That's unlikely.
5. Hillary Clinton has already conceded. On Wednesday Clinton said she congratulated Trump on his win and agreed to work with him on behalf of America. She told supporters: "Donald Trump is going to be our president. We owe him an open mind and a chance to lead." I doubt she would go along with any endeavor to go back on her word.
