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Sign This If You're Feeling Helpless Right Now
If you're still reeling from the fact that Donald Trump is our president-elect, one of the most hopeful headlines you might read about today involves a pro-Hillary Clinton petition that's gone viral. Less than 24 hours ago, a Clinton supporter named Elijah Berg started a Change.org petition with the hopes of inspiring the Electoral College to consider voting against their party in states that went red in the general election. With the intention of gaining 1.5 million signatures, this petition is already well on its way there.
The message of the petition is clear: Help save Hillary Clinton with the cooperation of faithless electors. On Dec. 19, the Electoral College representatives will get together to cast their votes, and the people — the signers of the petition — want them to consider voting against the way many of their states voted. Their argument is that not only did Clinton win the popular vote, but also that Trump is not fit for presidency. These bold opinions are reason enough for petition-signers to believe that they've got a real shot at making a change.
With this petition, supporters are making sure that their voices are heard and that the Electoral College is well-aware of the socio-political conditions that the people they represent are experiencing. For people who are feeling helpless right now and want to do something that feels proactive, signing a petition is a simple step to take. Here's an excerpt of what this petition stands for:
On December 19, the Electors of the Electoral College will cast their ballots. If they all vote the way their states voted, Donald Trump will win. However, they can vote for Hillary Clinton if they choose. Even in states where that is not allowed, their vote would still be counted, they would simply pay a small fine - which we can be sure Clinton supporters will be glad to pay! We are calling on the Electors to ignore their states' votes and cast their ballots for Secretary Clinton. Why? Mr. Trump is unfit to serve. His scapegoating of so many Americans, and his impulsivity, bullying, lying, admitted history of sexual assault, and utter lack of experience make him a danger to the Republic. 24 states bind electors. If electors vote against their party, they usually pay a fine. And people get mad. But they can vote however they want and there is no legal means to stop them in most states.
It's easy to see why this petition would go viral. For many of us, it's just the thing we didn't know we were thirsty for, especially because many of us are feeling more motivated for change than defeated at the moment. The conversational tone of the message makes it digestible and easy to understand, especially considering the fact that the entire electoral process is extremely confusing and complex. If you're interested in adding your voice to the chorus, head to Change.org, read the rest of the message, and sign your name.
