Noble democratic reformer Vladimir Putin criticized the U.S. electoral college [and backhandedly endorsed the National Popular Vote movement?] in response to WikiLeaks disclosures in which a U.S. official referred to his regime as “an oligarchy run by the security services.”

AFP: “Putin fires back over WikiLeaks criticism”

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/12/02/3082161.htm?section=justin

… Mr Putin rejected the allegations and pointed out that in past US presidential elections the winner received fewer popular votes but emerged victorious because of the Electoral College system. “When we are talking with our American friends and tell them there are systemic problems in this regard, we can hear from them: ‘Don't interfere with our affairs. This is our tradition and it's going to continue like that.’”

Jeff Patch

Communications Director

Center for Competitive Politics

124 S. West St. | Suite 201 | Alexandria, VA 22314

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