1 . We can make static baseline projections based on available data in order to put preliminary bounds on the uncertainty . We can then refine those projections with more granular voting and party affiliation data , as well as detailed demographic inferencestrumpvotemaps 2016 . The point is , we do have some idea how a popular vote election would have played out . Some dynamic uncertainty remains . But that doesn ' t invalidate the exercise . 2 . The protecting small states argument fails to consider its own propositions empirically , and falls apart when you think it through . PV creates a system of proportional say for President . Any argument about urban voters ' ability to determine policy in rural states under PVeven if accepted at face valueapplies with even greater force to the EC system that gives rural voters disproportional say over urban voters ' lives . 3 . The fundamental principle of one person , one vote is simpler and less susceptible to arbitrary results based on small vote shifts . More people seem to regard it as fair , intuitive and transparentwhich are important characteristics to consider when designing an electoral system , since they enhance confidence in the legitimacy of the system itself and the winners it produces . Also , by promoting more competition than in just swing states , it may also produce better substantive outcomes .