Watch Safeguard: An Electoral College Story

Safeguard: An Electoral College Story is a 2020 documentary film that explores the history, purpose, and impact of the United States Electoral College on presidential elections throughout history. It was directed by M.A. Taylor and stars John Burnett, Steve Forbes, and Allen Guelzo. The film delves into the Electoral College system and how it works, explaining that the US president is not elected directly by the voters but by electors, who are chosen by popular vote in each state. The number of electors from each state is determined by its population, with each state having a minimum of three.

Throughout the documentary, the filmmakers interview a range of experts, including journalists, political analysts, and historians, to provide insights and different perspectives on the Electoral College. The film also features archival footage of past presidential campaigns and highlights the impact of the Electoral College on past presidential elections.

The film examines how the Electoral College was established and the reasons for its creation, including the concerns of smaller states that they would be underrepresented in presidential elections if the president was elected solely by popular vote. The documentary goes on to explain how the system has evolved over time and the ways in which it has caused controversy, particularly in recent times.

One of the key points raised in the film is the 2016 presidential election, where candidate Donald Trump won the electoral vote but lost the popular vote to Hillary Clinton by almost 3 million votes. This sparked a renewed discussion about the Electoral College system and whether it was still relevant in modern times.

Safeguard: An Electoral College Story explores the different proposals that have been put forward to reform or abolish the Electoral College and the potential impact of such changes. It also examines the role of faithless electors and how they may influence the outcome of elections.

Overall, the documentary aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Electoral College system and its significance in American democracy. It engages the viewer in a thought-provoking discussion of the pros and cons of the Electoral College and challenges them to consider the role of this institution in shaping presidential elections and American democracy.

In conclusion, Safeguard: An Electoral College Story is a must-watch documentary for anyone interested in the US political system, presidential elections, and democratic processes. It provides a balanced and nuanced examination of the Electoral College system while showcasing a wide range of expert opinions and perspectives. Whether you are a political junkie or simply curious about the US election system and its nuances, this documentary will provide you with valuable insights and food for thought.

Safeguard: An Electoral College Story is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 16 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.