The vice president was initially chosen by selecting the candidate with the second highest number of votes. Explain if you think that is a good thing

3 answers

The practice of selecting the vice president as the candidate with the second highest number of votes, as it was done in the early years of the United States, has both advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages:

  1. Bipartisan Representation: This method could promote a form of bipartisan representation. If the president and vice president came from different political backgrounds, it might encourage cooperation and appeal to a broader section of the electorate.
  2. Voter Choice Reflection: It reflects the voters' preferences more directly, as the vice president is someone whom a significant portion of the electorate also supported.
  3. Support for a Strong Rival: The system could bring a strong political rival into the executive branch, which could lead to a more robust and dynamic administration.

Disadvantages:

  1. Political Instability: A president and vice president from opposing parties might lead to significant conflict within the executive branch, undermining governance and decision-making.
  2. Lack of Cohesion: Having leaders from different parties may create a lack of coherence in policy-making and could lead to gridlock in implementing the administration's agenda.
  3. Change in Political Dynamics: With the emergence of political parties, this system quickly became less practical. It may not accurately reflect the electorate's preferences as party loyalty often supersedes other considerations.

Conclusion:

While the initial method for selecting a vice president promoted a broader representation, it also had significant drawbacks that became evident with the evolution of the political landscape. The current system of running mates, where the presidential candidate selects a vice presidential candidate to run on a unified ticket, allows for greater collaboration and a cohesive administration. Overall, while the original method had good intentions, it is not well-suited for modern electoral politics.

make it short and 8th grade

Choosing the vice president as the person with the second highest number of votes has both good and bad sides.

Good Points:

  1. Bipartisan Representation: It could help include different political beliefs in the government.
  2. Reflects Voter Choice: This method shows what voters wanted, as the vice president would also have support.
  3. Strong Leadership: A strong rival could help keep the president in check and improve decision-making.

Bad Points:

  1. Conflict: Having a president and vice president from different parties might lead to arguments and disagreements.
  2. Lack of Teamwork: They might not work well together, making it hard to pass laws and make decisions.
  3. Outdated: With the rise of political parties, this system doesn’t fit well anymore.

Conclusion:

While it aimed for fairness, the old way of picking a vice president isn’t practical today. The current system, where the president picks a running mate, helps create a stronger team.