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boston bean

(36,218 posts)
Tue Dec 13, 2016, 11:57 PM Dec 2016

Holy shit! Harvard professor says GOP electors are close to blocking Trump win

Harvard University law professor Larry Lessig said Tuesday that 20 Republican Electoral College voters are considering flipping to vote against Donald Trump, more than half the number of anti-Trump votes needed to stall the president-elect from being sworn into office.

"Obviously, whether an elector ultimately votes his or her conscience will depend in part upon whether there are enough doing the same. We now believe there are more than half the number needed to change the result seriously considering making that vote," Lessig told Politico.


http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/310309-harvard-professor-says-gop-electors-are-close-to-blocking-trump






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Holy shit! Harvard professor says GOP electors are close to blocking Trump win (Original Post) boston bean Dec 2016 OP
I'd like to believe, but I am skeptical. Chasstev365 Dec 2016 #1
It would be great but here's my concern. The safety of the electors. underthematrix Dec 2016 #29
Right now I think James Comey Mr. Evil Dec 2016 #38
Message auto-removed Name removed Dec 2016 #75
Comey is Trump's lapdog. lagomorph777 Dec 2016 #82
Message auto-removed Name removed Dec 2016 #84
I don't think Obama realized Comey was a Russian mole. lagomorph777 Dec 2016 #87
Message auto-removed Name removed Dec 2016 #96
He suppressed investigation of Russian hacks while publicizing HRC investigation. lagomorph777 Dec 2016 #98
Post removed Post removed Dec 2016 #115
Welcome to DU, and nice try but around here we check RW talking points. lagomorph777 Dec 2016 #119
Message auto-removed Name removed Dec 2016 #123
I don't waste my breath on mindless Trumpies. Buh-bye. lagomorph777 Dec 2016 #124
Hint HurricaneWarning Dec 2016 #139
..... ailsagirl Dec 2016 #146
He should have realized awoke_in_2003 Dec 2016 #112
Raeally?, I didn't know that. Thanks for the info! JimBeard Dec 2016 #116
Message auto-removed Name removed Dec 2016 #125
The older I get awoke_in_2003 Dec 2016 #128
I don't think Comey is a Russian mole underthematrix Dec 2016 #151
This message was self-deleted by its author get the red out Dec 2016 #126
No. Comey knew his statement might well throw the election Hortensis Dec 2016 #64
Same here. Pacifist Patriot Dec 2016 #85
If come Monday and this happens liberal N proud Dec 2016 #2
Pretty much where my head is at. InAbLuEsTaTe Dec 2016 #40
56 (plus?) EC members now demanding intel on Russian interference. Hortensis Dec 2016 #66
It means nothing. The vote will go as scheduled. duffyduff Dec 2016 #108
Maybe change nothing. But if nothing else it means Hortensis Dec 2016 #109
This is why the Dems aren't putting up much of a fight right now. duffyduff Dec 2016 #110
A CA Democrat is suing to invalidate the law binding Hortensis Dec 2016 #69
Fuck him. I hate assholes like that. duffyduff Dec 2016 #111
No, no, no. There's no chance the EC would elect Hillary. Hortensis Dec 2016 #113
Seriously..At this point I would welcome Kaisch or Romney... white_wolf Dec 2016 #131
Same here. Kasich is too dumb, bigoted, way too Hortensis Dec 2016 #136
This is how I feel also -- I would be delighted, ecstatic. But I have my doubts at this point anneboleyn Dec 2016 #127
House will ignore electors if they go rogue and install Trump anyway. n/t yodermon Dec 2016 #3
Gee, no kidding. Really? KittyWampus Dec 2016 #9
I agree. No matter outcome this is a good thing. boston bean Dec 2016 #13
if he still has more electoral college votes than anyone else onenote Dec 2016 #24
If fewer than 270 vote for him, then the decision goes to the House pnwmom Dec 2016 #41
A House Republican who would vote for someone other than Trump... spin Dec 2016 #45
Not if enough other people did it. There's no love lost between DT pnwmom Dec 2016 #47
A high percentage of Republican voters are TOTALLY fed up with Establishment ... spin Dec 2016 #49
Hd won, possibly because there were so many Ilsa Dec 2016 #61
House might choose Jeb or Marco, because they were preferred by most of the big GOP donors. nt tblue37 Dec 2016 #101
They could. But they won't onenote Dec 2016 #72
Can they do that? Hassin Bin Sober Dec 2016 #44
I thought that the House and Senate could only interfere in the event of a tie and only a tie? cstanleytech Dec 2016 #52
No, they can refuse to accept any or all of the electoral votes Grey Lemercier Dec 2016 #59
Oh, this should be amusing to watch then in a "train wreck in action" kind of way as cstanleytech Dec 2016 #142
Message auto-removed Name removed Dec 2016 #129
But... forgotmylogin Dec 2016 #95
20 is barely half-way there. That's not close at all. 35 would be close. LonePirate Dec 2016 #4
Right. Amd they will own him. 100%. boston bean Dec 2016 #6
Depends on who the third candidate would be... roamer65 Dec 2016 #20
House could pick Pence Liberty Belle Dec 2016 #21
No. They cannot pick Pence. roamer65 Dec 2016 #23
Good will? We can wrap that up, put it in a box and stow it away in the attic. Missn-Hitch Dec 2016 #32
It's already being labeled "Grand Compromise of 2016". roamer65 Dec 2016 #35
Message auto-removed Name removed Dec 2016 #83
Message auto-removed Name removed Dec 2016 #73
They won't. They need the energy, anger and numbers from the deplorables. LonePirate Dec 2016 #26
Well if they let Hillary become president with Pence as VP then the deplorables will have plenty to cstanleytech Dec 2016 #53
all we need is 37 to flip. Javaman Dec 2016 #80
Except 37 are not going to flip to Clinton and not all Dem electors will flip to a third candidate. LonePirate Dec 2016 #86
they don't need to flip to Clinton, just not to the orange jerk. nt Javaman Dec 2016 #130
Someone besides him needs to win 270 electors or the House picks and they will pick him. LonePirate Dec 2016 #134
no, without enough electorial votes no one becomes pres and we have a new election. Javaman Dec 2016 #137
Unless at least 38 electors switch SickOfTheOnePct Dec 2016 #147
Harvard professor, and former democratic presidential candidate. Nt aidbo Dec 2016 #5
I am not buying it. duffyduff Dec 2016 #7
This message was self-deleted by its author Pacifist Patriot Dec 2016 #88
The Republicans of 40 or 50 years ago could do this, duffyduff Dec 2016 #107
Bingo Pacifist Patriot Dec 2016 #114
+1 harun Dec 2016 #141
It would take 36 BainsBane Dec 2016 #8
This isn't a pipe dream Or getting hopes up. boston bean Dec 2016 #11
I'm just telling you it takes more than 20 BainsBane Dec 2016 #12
I know the number. And the article is also clear. boston bean Dec 2016 #15
Dominoes fall one at a time. The more that fall, the more that will come after. Tiggeroshii Dec 2016 #37
That's true. A couple weeks ago, most people wouldn't have thought even 5 EC's would flip AgadorSparticus Dec 2016 #60
I still don't think 5 will flip dems_rightnow Dec 2016 #70
Message auto-removed Name removed Dec 2016 #92
Flummoxed as to why people are pipi_k Dec 2016 #93
Geez how you been? Haven't seen you in ages. I don't give a shit if they use the constitution to boston bean Dec 2016 #102
Well said. cwydro Dec 2016 #121
I suspect I know what's going on but I won't say it. roamer65 Dec 2016 #19
stop talking about it dumbass Jean-Jacques Roussea Dec 2016 #10
Did you just call someone a dumbass? ismnotwasm Dec 2016 #14
the Harvard prof Jean-Jacques Roussea Dec 2016 #16
Okey dokey ismnotwasm Dec 2016 #18
Fingers are crossed. roamer65 Dec 2016 #17
Holy Shit is right.. i hope he's right.. you can't get anymore Blatantly Cha Dec 2016 #22
But he met with Kanye today. That is improvement. Missn-Hitch Dec 2016 #33
No it's not. Cha Dec 2016 #56
I agree. I am still upset what he did to that young girl, Taylor Swift. JimBeard Dec 2016 #120
That's right.. that's just one of his stupid dumb acts. Cha Dec 2016 #150
I'd like to think positive, but I'm bitter. Everytime this kind of thing comes out, C Moon Dec 2016 #25
THIS! nt SoCalMusicLover Dec 2016 #28
They need to STOP hurple Dec 2016 #27
Good point but I do believe the RNC has been alerted. Missn-Hitch Dec 2016 #34
we'll see AlexSFCA Dec 2016 #30
Do you recall Lessig's inspiring, well-planned Primary campaign? brooklynite Dec 2016 #31
All I want for Christmas is an Electoral College that protects America. nt TeamPooka Dec 2016 #36
+1 nt iluvtennis Dec 2016 #51
The entire GOP is not on board with Trump. melody Dec 2016 #39
I'll take it AlexSFCA Dec 2016 #43
True. Establishment Republicans hate Trump. ... spin Dec 2016 #48
That's not the reaction I've had from a couple of Trumpers melody Dec 2016 #54
I'm in northern Florida. ... spin Dec 2016 #57
Kasich is the name I'm seeing discussed on the web. Hortensis Dec 2016 #68
I'll Believe It When I see It DallasNE Dec 2016 #42
I'll believe it when I see it. Until then, Assfaced Shitgibbon is our president. Feeling the Bern Dec 2016 #46
That doesnt get old :-) CentralMass Dec 2016 #58
Maybe those electors are just "torturing" us on purpose mchill Dec 2016 #50
I doubt it. I hope so, but I doubt it. Kablooie Dec 2016 #55
Lol. cwydro Dec 2016 #62
I don't know about holy pintobean Dec 2016 #63
Hillary should have pushed for the Michigan recount Takket Dec 2016 #65
Message auto-removed Name removed Dec 2016 #90
He's got a real inside scoop...LOL ileus Dec 2016 #67
Put yourself in the place of an elector. Knowing the cabinet nominees and the general coziness Vinca Dec 2016 #71
I would love to see this happen Gothmog Dec 2016 #74
Until it happens JustAnotherGen Dec 2016 #76
It can't hurt, can it? boston bean Dec 2016 #77
I keep reading these "headlines" JustAnotherGen Dec 2016 #78
Well, something is going on. Whether anything happens with it or not... boston bean Dec 2016 #81
uh huh... Javaman Dec 2016 #79
I'll believe it when it happens Coolest Ranger Dec 2016 #89
But we still get a Republican, possibly even worse than the Tweeter-In- Chief elect, though that's.. Tarheel_Dem Dec 2016 #91
does anyone know if electors can abstain? nt tomp Dec 2016 #94
Message auto-removed Name removed Dec 2016 #97
Yes. In 2000, a DC elector abstained in protest of DC's lack of Congressional representation. JustinL Dec 2016 #149
I dunno, unable to buy this, unless the nastiness of this December surprise ain't over yet. JHan Dec 2016 #99
close to heaven05 Dec 2016 #100
How the hell is that close when it is barely more than half of what is needed? nt doc03 Dec 2016 #103
The key word here is "stall". This would not prevent anything. guillaumeb Dec 2016 #104
Let me know when 37 Trump electors have switched to Clinton. Coyotl Dec 2016 #105
Will they elect Trump? spinbaby Dec 2016 #118
I will believe it when we hear about this coming Monday 12/19/2016 turbinetree Dec 2016 #106
More than half isn't exactly "close" wryter2000 Dec 2016 #117
I'll place this in the trying bucolic_frolic Dec 2016 #122
This has to happen Dopers_Greed Dec 2016 #132
Seeing is believing JPPaverage Dec 2016 #133
I absolutely detest Trump Got it Dec 2016 #135
The EC should force zippythepinhead Dec 2016 #138
if i was a praying person, barbtries Dec 2016 #140
But for whom? Kasich? Yes, better than Trump, but still not Hillary who is the people's choice.(nt) ehrnst Dec 2016 #143
Maybe there are some humbled_opinion Dec 2016 #144
Wish I could believe that ailsagirl Dec 2016 #145
Oooooooh, too tempting. baldguy Dec 2016 #148
Hard to believe, but it sure would start off the new term with a shit-show of resentments Bucky Dec 2016 #152

underthematrix

(5,811 posts)
29. It would be great but here's my concern. The safety of the electors.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:48 AM
Dec 2016

If the head of the FBI was willing to facilitate a coup what makes you think he wouldn't use trumped up charges to threaten the electors with prison?

Mr. Evil

(2,825 posts)
38. Right now I think James Comey
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 01:51 AM
Dec 2016

has about as much credibility and influence as one of Bill O'Reilly's ambush journalists.

Response to Mr. Evil (Reply #38)

Response to lagomorph777 (Reply #82)

Response to lagomorph777 (Reply #87)

lagomorph777

(30,613 posts)
98. He suppressed investigation of Russian hacks while publicizing HRC investigation.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 11:13 AM
Dec 2016

That is pro-Russian on the face of it; you don't need a security clearance to see that.

Response to lagomorph777 (Reply #98)

lagomorph777

(30,613 posts)
119. Welcome to DU, and nice try but around here we check RW talking points.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:36 PM
Dec 2016
http://www.snopes.com/hillary-clinton-uranium-russia-deal/

The Uranium One deal was not Clinton's to veto or approve

Among the ways these accusations stray from the facts is in attributing a power of veto or approval to Secretary Clinton that she simply did not have. Clinton was one of nine cabinet members and department heads that sit on the CFIUS, and the secretary of the treasury is its chairperson. CFIUS members are collectively charged with evaluating the transaction for potential national security issues, then turning their findings over to the president. By law, the committee can't veto a transaction; only the president can. According to The New York Times, Clinton may not have even directly participated in the Uranium One decision. Then-Assistant Secretary of State Jose Fernandez, whose job it was to represent the State Dept. on CFIUS, said Clinton herself "never intervened" in committee matters.

Response to lagomorph777 (Reply #119)

HurricaneWarning

(220 posts)
139. Hint
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 04:32 PM
Dec 2016

If you are going to troll a progressive site successfully, you'll need to know the difference between a noun and and adjective.

Response to awoke_in_2003 (Reply #112)

 

awoke_in_2003

(34,582 posts)
128. The older I get
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 01:26 PM
Dec 2016

the more I think the goings on in DC are nothing but a very sick Kabuki theater. They all seem to be thick as thieves.

underthematrix

(5,811 posts)
151. I don't think Comey is a Russian mole
Thu Dec 15, 2016, 03:16 AM
Dec 2016

I think they either had something on him or threatened to take something from him

Response to Name removed (Reply #75)

Hortensis

(58,785 posts)
64. No. Comey knew his statement might well throw the election
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 07:18 AM
Dec 2016

to the Republicans. He also knew it was a gross breach of long-established procedure and principle and would severely damage his reputation. He made the statement. His own position as Director of the FBI was never endangered, he had another 8 years in his appointment, and it was never about legal duty or self protection. We have every reason in the world to believe Comey deliberately acted against the Democrats to help the Republicans.

FURTHER, we have real reason to suspect Comey decided to not interfere with Russian cyber attacks against the Democrats during this election.

The FBI knew for months that Russia was hacking DNC computers, but the only notice the DNC had was one agent calling a mid-level IT manager, who didn't believe the call was really from the FBI and never returned the few follow-up calls made over the next few months. The FBI is thus able to claim they warned the DNC. In fact, the FBI NEVER contacted anyone higher up and, even though the FBI and DNC are almost literally without shouting distance in DC, the FBI never visited the DNC offices to discuss this.

The FBI also knew Russia was hacking Democratic congressional candidates.

BUT, the FBI discouraging electors by threatening to manufacture evidence to imprison them? He couldn't do that here and get away with it. Not yet anyway. Note the tremendous difference between what you're imagining and what he has done, one a simple statement using the excuse of reporting to Congress and the second a malicious neglect after documenting the notice given, and what you're imagining.

NY Times: The Perfect Weapon: How Russian Cyberpower Invaded the U.S.
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/13/us/politics/russia-hack-election-dnc.html?hp&action=click&pgtype=Homepage&clickSource=story-heading&module=a-lede-package-region®ion=top-news&WT.nav=top-news


liberal N proud

(60,332 posts)
2. If come Monday and this happens
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:02 AM
Dec 2016

I will be relieved, I will be elated, I will be excited, I will be thrilled.

But I will not raise any hope that it will happen.

Hortensis

(58,785 posts)
66. 56 (plus?) EC members now demanding intel on Russian interference.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 07:24 AM
Dec 2016

That's out of, what, 538 or so, 55 of them Democrats? But still. This has become a story.

 

duffyduff

(3,251 posts)
108. It means nothing. The vote will go as scheduled.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 11:59 AM
Dec 2016

The problem is they meet in their own states and not in one location to vote.

To get them to do anything different is like herding cats.

It is just not going to happen.

Hortensis

(58,785 posts)
109. Maybe change nothing. But if nothing else it means
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:07 PM
Dec 2016

they're trying to cover their asses.

Just for one instance, experts expect a North Korea crisis soon over its development of nuclear missiles. How would you like to be an elector after Trump's incompetence lead to deaths of tens of thousands, or more, of Americans from an attack right here in the states?

North Korea, only one of many nations, almost certainly has the capability to destroy vital systems we depend on for life. And he doesn't even need a bomb for that, probably just shares Trump's fascination with the scope of destruction.

Or how about after our failure to contain Russia's aggression lead to the collapse of NATO and Russian annexation of Baltic states? Another far from unthinkable scenario.

But new questions have finally been seriously raised about the function and purpose of the electoral college itself. That will probably eventually mean quite a bit.

 

duffyduff

(3,251 posts)
110. This is why the Dems aren't putting up much of a fight right now.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:09 PM
Dec 2016

They figure it is all going to blow up in the GOP's faces--bigly.

And it will.

Hortensis

(58,785 posts)
69. A CA Democrat is suing to invalidate the law binding
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 07:35 AM
Dec 2016

delegates to the winner of the popular vote. If it were invalidated, it would reportedly throw similar laws in other states in question, perhaps encouraging anti-Trump electors to vote against Trump -- in favor of another Republican, of course.

Trump is trying to be named a party to the suit so he can fight it in court.

http://www.politico.com/story/2016/12/trump-electoral-college-lawsuit-232609

 

duffyduff

(3,251 posts)
111. Fuck him. I hate assholes like that.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:10 PM
Dec 2016

You are a Democrat, you fucking vote for the winner for the popular vote.

Hortensis

(58,785 posts)
113. No, no, no. There's no chance the EC would elect Hillary.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:15 PM
Dec 2016

This is a good guy doing his best for the nation.

white_wolf

(6,238 posts)
131. Seriously..At this point I would welcome Kaisch or Romney...
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 01:55 PM
Dec 2016

I can't believe I have to say those words. Clinton won the freaking popular vote by like 2.5 million. This system is so stupid.

Hortensis

(58,785 posts)
136. Same here. Kasich is too dumb, bigoted, way too
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 03:48 PM
Dec 2016

religious, not moderate, and probably still hand-in-glove with the Kochs. But Koch and Christian reconstructionists are stuffing Trump's administration with their people anyway. The Christian extremists may not be afraid of the end of the world, but I am.

anneboleyn

(5,611 posts)
127. This is how I feel also -- I would be delighted, ecstatic. But I have my doubts at this point
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 01:24 PM
Dec 2016

that this will happen. Frankly, considering Trump's OUTRAGEOUS behavior, this is just about the only option left to stop him. He is an insane despot already, ranting and raving about himself in front of his "fans" (voters), conducting the official business of gov in an insane manner. I can't even imagine what a monster he will become once he is sworn in.

For one thing I'd be terrified for the electors who voted against Trump. Their lives would be in danger. But seriously, even Meghan McCain was on Fox's Outnumbered today saying how dangerous Trump's footsy with Putin is and that Trump's "friend of Russia" sec of state pic is seriously dangerous. I think it will only get worse.

onenote

(42,581 posts)
24. if he still has more electoral college votes than anyone else
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:29 AM
Dec 2016

why wouldn't they choose him. They're not going to allow 38 electors to overrule 269 electors.

pnwmom

(108,955 posts)
41. If fewer than 270 vote for him, then the decision goes to the House
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 02:05 AM
Dec 2016

where they could pick a standard-issue right-wing Rethug, instead of a crazed monster.

spin

(17,493 posts)
45. A House Republican who would vote for someone other than Trump...
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 02:16 AM
Dec 2016

would most likely be committing political suicide.

pnwmom

(108,955 posts)
47. Not if enough other people did it. There's no love lost between DT
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 02:21 AM
Dec 2016

and the mainstream of the Rethug party -- or even outliers like tea partier Ted Cruz.

They also might prefer to stop him now than to have to impeach him 6 months from now.

spin

(17,493 posts)
49. A high percentage of Republican voters are TOTALLY fed up with Establishment ...
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 02:38 AM
Dec 2016

Republicans. Mitt Romney didn't pull any punches when he described Trump:

"Here's what I know: Donald Trump is a phony, a fraud," Romney said. "His promises are as worthless as a degree from Trump University. He's playing members of the American public for suckers: He gets a free ride to the White House, and all we get is a lousy hat."

Romney said that "dishonesty is Donald Trump's hallmark," pointing to his "bullying, the greed, the showing off, the misogyny, the absurd third-grade theatrics."
http://www.cnn.com/2016/03/03/politics/mitt-romney-presidential-race-speech/


The voters picked Trmp in the primary race despite all the attempts by Establishment Republicans to stop him cold. In many states if a House Republican were to vote against Trump he could kiss his political career goodbye.

Trump was able to take over the Republican Party because it was ripe for a hostile takeover.

Ilsa

(61,690 posts)
61. Hd won, possibly because there were so many
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 06:05 AM
Dec 2016

in the primary racs early, and he had name recognition and was antiestablishment. He took 50% in the primaries how many times? Just a few, near the end.

I could see the House putting Rmoney or Ryan in. I'd be relieved if it was Mittens. At leastbit wouldn't feel like he's about to screw us over with Russia or start WW3.

tblue37

(65,218 posts)
101. House might choose Jeb or Marco, because they were preferred by most of the big GOP donors. nt
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 11:30 AM
Dec 2016

onenote

(42,581 posts)
72. They could. But they won't
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 08:57 AM
Dec 2016

You underestimate Trumps popularity among rein voters. He received more votes than all 435 Repub candidates combined. Plus you also underestimate the optics of allowing 12 or 13 percent of the Repub electors to override the votes of more than 85 percent of the electors to choose someone who either didn't run or who ran and was soundly rejected by the Repub electorate during the primaries (and who likely would have received less than 10 percent of the Repub electors' votes

Hassin Bin Sober

(26,311 posts)
44. Can they do that?
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 02:11 AM
Dec 2016

My reading is they only step in if no one gets a majority.

Of course, the electors would have to vote for HRC to read off Congress.

cstanleytech

(26,227 posts)
52. I thought that the House and Senate could only interfere in the event of a tie and only a tie?
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 02:48 AM
Dec 2016

Or in other words none of the candidates reach the 270 needed so what happens if enough of them switch to give Hillary the win because they believe Trumps mentally unfit to be president?

 

Grey Lemercier

(1,429 posts)
59. No, they can refuse to accept any or all of the electoral votes
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 04:43 AM
Dec 2016

The only thing they cannot do is to insert a candidate. They have to vote from only the top 3 electoral vote getters. If enough of the electors for Trump just abstain, and he ends up with say 265, but none of them actually cast a vote for a different person, the House would only Have Clinton and Trump to chose from. At least one Trump elector has to actually vote for a 3rd person, if the plan was to elect a regular Rethug via the House.

cstanleytech

(26,227 posts)
142. Oh, this should be amusing to watch then in a "train wreck in action" kind of way as
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 06:25 PM
Dec 2016

I really doubt the Republicans in the House want to be put into the position of actually going on record as putting Trump into office rather than hide behind the skirts of the electoral college.

Response to cstanleytech (Reply #52)

LonePirate

(13,408 posts)
4. 20 is barely half-way there. That's not close at all. 35 would be close.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:07 AM
Dec 2016

I would be very surprised if more than 5 of his electors do not vote for him.

Unless someone else wins a majority of electors, the House will decide the winner and there is no doubt they will choose the Racist-in-Chief.

Liberty Belle

(9,533 posts)
21. House could pick Pence
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:23 AM
Dec 2016

or another Republican, and I could see them doing that. Many have concerns about Trump, but most Republicans would not hand it off to a Democrat.

roamer65

(36,744 posts)
23. No. They cannot pick Pence.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:27 AM
Dec 2016

The House picks from the 3 top electoral vote getters for POTUS. Pence may be considered in the Senate for VP, but I doubt he will get it. They will probably elect Tim Kaine as a gesture of good will.

Missn-Hitch

(1,383 posts)
32. Good will? We can wrap that up, put it in a box and stow it away in the attic.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 01:07 AM
Dec 2016

We are heading into cloak and dagger territory. Eh, we are just going to have to deal with the orange menace for, I predict, 6 months. He will be imoranged - I mean, impeached.

roamer65

(36,744 posts)
35. It's already being labeled "Grand Compromise of 2016".
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 01:16 AM
Dec 2016

This one may end up like 1800 and 1824. The House decided both of those. 1800 was Thomas Jefferson.

Response to Missn-Hitch (Reply #32)

Response to roamer65 (Reply #23)

LonePirate

(13,408 posts)
26. They won't. They need the energy, anger and numbers from the deplorables.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:38 AM
Dec 2016

Selecting Pence would be a huge middle finger to those people who aren't exactly peaceniks. They may hate Democrats but they would unleash their fury if Republicans chose Pence or anyone but the Racist-in-Chief.

cstanleytech

(26,227 posts)
53. Well if they let Hillary become president with Pence as VP then the deplorables will have plenty to
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 02:52 AM
Dec 2016

be angry at and meanwhile they can work to have Pence run against her in 2020 while working to undercut her as her VP.

LonePirate

(13,408 posts)
86. Except 37 are not going to flip to Clinton and not all Dem electors will flip to a third candidate.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 10:24 AM
Dec 2016

Barring some sort of miracle, there will be no changes to the current expectations for Inauguration Day.

LonePirate

(13,408 posts)
134. Someone besides him needs to win 270 electors or the House picks and they will pick him.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 02:50 PM
Dec 2016

Unless someone else wins 270 electors on Monday, he will be inaugurated on Jan. 20.

Javaman

(62,500 posts)
137. no, without enough electorial votes no one becomes pres and we have a new election.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 03:56 PM
Dec 2016

after everything that happens, he wouldn't be elected dog catcher.

wait, my mistake.

the house would pick the president out of 3 presidential candidates who received the most electoral votes.

many of repuke electorates, I believe would still vote for dump, BUT, I think he would still not reach 270 and Clinton would win.

SickOfTheOnePct

(7,290 posts)
147. Unless at least 38 electors switch
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 10:35 PM
Dec 2016

from Trump to Hillary, she can't win.

And that's ignoring the fact that Congress can and will toss the votes of any faithless Trump electors.

 

duffyduff

(3,251 posts)
7. I am not buying it.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:08 AM
Dec 2016

These nitwits will sell the country down the river because they are just giddy with the prospect of controlling ALL branches of government.

They don't give a shit about the Russians running our country through a puppet regime.

Response to duffyduff (Reply #7)

 

duffyduff

(3,251 posts)
107. The Republicans of 40 or 50 years ago could do this,
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 11:57 AM
Dec 2016

but not this bunch. Most of them are Tea Party, far right extremists.

They cannot think outside the bubble.

BainsBane

(53,012 posts)
8. It would take 36
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:11 AM
Dec 2016

20 could vote Clinton and Trump would still win.

Then remember there are some Dem electors in WA who said they would not vote for Clinton.

boston bean

(36,218 posts)
11. This isn't a pipe dream Or getting hopes up.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:14 AM
Dec 2016

This puts the entire ec into questi n. It may also force the republicans to fully own this turd.

Really, i am flummoxed as to why people are poo pooing this.

 

Tiggeroshii

(11,088 posts)
37. Dominoes fall one at a time. The more that fall, the more that will come after.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 01:48 AM
Dec 2016

So far 21 have went.

We'll see, I guess. I certainly am not pinning any hopes on it. I know for sure that there will likely be enough Republicans who will vote for an alternative Republican if given the chance, just given the fact they are already on Trump's blacklist. This could ultimately just mean that Trump's vote is split in congress, and Clinton takes it.

AgadorSparticus

(7,963 posts)
60. That's true. A couple weeks ago, most people wouldn't have thought even 5 EC's would flip
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 05:57 AM
Dec 2016

We are now up to 21. We may be up to 40 before you know it.

dems_rightnow

(1,956 posts)
70. I still don't think 5 will flip
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 08:29 AM
Dec 2016

We're not up to 21. We're up to one guying saying there are 21.

I'd bet serious money on less than 5 flipping. I'd also take the "under" on two flipping.

Response to boston bean (Reply #11)

pipi_k

(21,020 posts)
93. Flummoxed as to why people are
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 10:52 AM
Dec 2016

poo pooing this?


Let me turn this around. Imagine this is the Republicans talking about a Democrat. Stopping him or her from being inaugurated...the EC is suddenly going to see the error of their ways and refuse to select him or her.

Wouldn't people here poo-poo that idea? Wouldn't people laugh and call the Republicans idiots for even thinking it would be possible? Would people be biting their nails in fear, believing that if it happened, it would mean the derailing of the whole electoral process? No, very likely they would accuse Republicans trying to do it of being insane.

Would people think it's FAIR?

Oh yeah, I get it.

Things are only "fair" when they benefit ourselves.

And, I probably don't have to remind anyone, but will anyway...be careful of what you try to do to someone else, because there could come a time when what went around came back around.

Trump is a disgusting excuse for a human being, not even worthy of being called a "man" since he's so much like a petulant 5 year old child.

But all these dreams of stopping his inauguration are nothing but dreams.

boston bean

(36,218 posts)
102. Geez how you been? Haven't seen you in ages. I don't give a shit if they use the constitution to
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 11:31 AM
Dec 2016

make this trojan fascist creep ineligible to serve.

It is what it is.

 
10. stop talking about it dumbass
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:14 AM
Dec 2016

Do they think republicans are in a collective coma? They're gonna fight back if they catch wind.

Cha

(296,821 posts)
22. Holy Shit is right.. i hope he's right.. you can't get anymore Blatantly
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:25 AM
Dec 2016

corrupt and unqualified than trump.

C Moon

(12,208 posts)
25. I'd like to think positive, but I'm bitter. Everytime this kind of thing comes out,
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:38 AM
Dec 2016

it goes 100% the other way.

hurple

(1,306 posts)
27. They need to STOP
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:46 AM
Dec 2016

talking about this in public, or to people who then run and tell the press.

This will just lead to more threats and pushback against them. They need to hold these cards close to their chest until they play them.

AlexSFCA

(6,137 posts)
30. we'll see
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:48 AM
Dec 2016

I think that the house will still likely to elect trump if electors flip. But it is still an improvement because they will be doing him a favor and perharps will have more control over his crazy agenda so less damage may be done. It will also show divisions because I think many republicans won't vote for him. Divisions will help to weaken GOP.

melody

(12,365 posts)
39. The entire GOP is not on board with Trump.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 01:55 AM
Dec 2016

There are still thinking Republicans - and any one over 50 isn't going to take kindly to meddling Russians.

The alternative to Annoying Orange could still be a Republican - Jeb Bush, Romney, Kasich, etc.

AlexSFCA

(6,137 posts)
43. I'll take it
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 02:11 AM
Dec 2016

at this point I'll take almost any reublican over trump. I don't think anyone will be as reckless with our country. The point is to denormalize trump.

spin

(17,493 posts)
48. True. Establishment Republicans hate Trump. ...
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 02:24 AM
Dec 2016

The problem is that a lot of the Republican base is totally fed up with Establishment Republicans because they promise a lot and never deliver. These unhappy Republicans are also not fond of Jeb Bush, Romney or even Kasich. Trump is their man and there will be hell to pay if he doesn't take over the Oval Office.

melody

(12,365 posts)
54. That's not the reaction I've had from a couple of Trumpers
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 03:13 AM
Dec 2016

Both said they'd be okay with another Republican. Of course, I'm in LA.

DallasNE

(7,402 posts)
42. I'll Believe It When I see It
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 02:07 AM
Dec 2016

Even though Hillary's popular lead over Trump is now over 2.8 million.

Hillary would need 270 votes to win. If electors just vote present rather than for Hillary it would just throw it into the House of Representatives and we know what happens there. I would put the chances of a Hillary win at .00000000000000002%.

Kablooie

(18,608 posts)
55. I doubt it. I hope so, but I doubt it.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 03:13 AM
Dec 2016

Though any electors, who are suppose to be educated, politically savvy people, that vote for him are blind imbeciles.

Response to Takket (Reply #65)

Vinca

(50,236 posts)
71. Put yourself in the place of an elector. Knowing the cabinet nominees and the general coziness
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 08:46 AM
Dec 2016

with Putin, how on earth could you have a vote for him on your conscience?

JustAnotherGen

(31,780 posts)
76. Until it happens
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 09:40 AM
Dec 2016

I don't believe it.

I truly don't think these calls to have electors flip or turn against Trump are going to work. We are better to wait for a disgraceful impeachment.

JustAnotherGen

(31,780 posts)
78. I keep reading these "headlines"
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 10:00 AM
Dec 2016

And it's depressing. It's not going to happen. Would I love it to happen? Yes! Absolutely.

But it is not going to happen.

boston bean

(36,218 posts)
81. Well, something is going on. Whether anything happens with it or not...
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 10:03 AM
Dec 2016

I think it's better to keep applying pressure versus saying never gonna happen.

But I agree, it is highly unlikely that electors will do the right thing.

Tarheel_Dem

(31,221 posts)
91. But we still get a Republican, possibly even worse than the Tweeter-In- Chief elect, though that's..
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 10:41 AM
Dec 2016

hard to imagine.

Response to tomp (Reply #94)

JustinL

(722 posts)
149. Yes. In 2000, a DC elector abstained in protest of DC's lack of Congressional representation.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 11:28 PM
Dec 2016

The official tally shows Gore with only two electoral votes from DC.

 

heaven05

(18,124 posts)
100. close to
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 11:25 AM
Dec 2016

but no cigar. Would love to experience this classist, racist society/culture shaken up like that. The pundits all saying he tapped into deep seated american 'angst' about so many things that comprise equality in this society. I say what can be expected of a society/culture built on genocide of the red man, slavery of the black man and oppression of women? Trumpfuhrer and his congressional and corporate cronies will hang on to power. Dissent and resistance will be the order of the day....for however long it takes to regain 'democratic normalcy' in this now very fucked up country. Violent brownshirts everywhere now. SPLC.

guillaumeb

(42,641 posts)
104. The key word here is "stall". This would not prevent anything.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 11:37 AM
Dec 2016

Unless the hope is that the House would refuse to certify the process.

 

Coyotl

(15,262 posts)
105. Let me know when 37 Trump electors have switched to Clinton.
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 11:39 AM
Dec 2016

Otherwise, the Republican Congress just elects Trump anyway if he falls short.

spinbaby

(15,088 posts)
118. Will they elect Trump?
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:34 PM
Dec 2016

I'm betting that, if it goes to congress, they'll find a way to elect Pence or even Ryan.

turbinetree

(24,683 posts)
106. I will believe it when we hear about this coming Monday 12/19/2016
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 11:53 AM
Dec 2016

I am not going to hold my breath and turn blue, these people do not care about the republic, it is about free market capitalism, and having a serial predator has president, that will rubber stamp my guess about 95% of everything. And if he doesn't get his way, your toast

The logic of a criminal enterprise coming to total fruition is close at hand based on a complete fraud of lies and deceit

62 million stupids were warned and they got up and went to vote and now they are going to get what they wanted, and to hell with everyone else, if that includes there parents, children, grandparents, uncles, aunts, nieces getting screwed so what, they ate the BS and now they want everyone else to get ready to have some too

My answer FU and the horse you road in on , he is not president he did not win the VOTE

wryter2000

(46,023 posts)
117. More than half isn't exactly "close"
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 12:34 PM
Dec 2016

I'd love to see the electoral college behave the way it was constructed to, but it'll have to be more than "more than half."

bucolic_frolic

(43,044 posts)
122. I'll place this in the trying
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 01:05 PM
Dec 2016

to create a stampede category

Much like the Romney polls of 2012 ... he was ahead all the time,
surging, gaining momentum ...

Dopers_Greed

(2,640 posts)
132. This has to happen
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 01:55 PM
Dec 2016

But I'll believe it when I see it. We very well may never hear about this again, and the EC just picks Herr Dumpf without debate.

JPPaverage

(508 posts)
133. Seeing is believing
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 02:45 PM
Dec 2016

I hate to be so skeptical. But after witnessing everything that has gone on the last month I can't really help it.

 

ehrnst

(32,640 posts)
143. But for whom? Kasich? Yes, better than Trump, but still not Hillary who is the people's choice.(nt)
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 07:45 PM
Dec 2016

humbled_opinion

(4,423 posts)
144. Maybe there are some
Wed Dec 14, 2016, 08:17 PM
Dec 2016

sane electors that want to vote for Hillary, but are in need of some leadership on the issue. Is there anyone in her campaign that can reach out to them all she needs is 38 electors to switch from Trump to her. I wonder if any have talked to her people?

Bucky

(53,936 posts)
152. Hard to believe, but it sure would start off the new term with a shit-show of resentments
Thu Dec 15, 2016, 08:38 AM
Dec 2016

regardless of who the president is.

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