If the good professor is correct that most Americans think we are a democracy and not a constitutional republic, then it speaks volume regarding the state of our country's education system.  I took American History from Professor Haycox over 45 years ago and it appears his position has "evolved" regarding the Electoral College.  This tends to happen when elections don't result in one's desired outcome.  We are a confederation of states and the Electoral College gives all states a voice in selecting the President.