Abandoning the Electoral College – American Government

One of the main criticisms of the Electoral College is that inherent in every election is the possibility that the president will be a candidate that lost the populate vote (i.e. the president will not be the person whom the majority of people selected to win).   In our modern political era this has occurred four times, Donald Trump being the most recent elected president under this phenomenon.   This is often quite shocking for people in other countries, especially when the United States is heralded and placed on a pedestal as one of the oldest and most functional democratic republics.   The Electoral College also heavily favors small states. The fact that every one gets three automatic electors — one for each senator and a House member — means states that by population might be entitled to only one or two electoral votes wind up with three, four or five.
Under the system of the electoral college, the majority does not rule and every vote is not equal — those are held up as reason enough for abandoning the institution. However, there are additional consequences that can be realized, including the imbalance of political campaigns.  For example,  a handful of swing states take on oversized importance, (Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Florida, etc.)  leading the candidates to focus their attention, money and promises on a small slice of the electorate.  The 2016 election was cycle was the first time in nearly a decade where presidential hopefuls spent considerable time in places like New York and California, states that traditionally do not garner attention from presidential candidates because of their cemented political positions. 
We are hearing far more about healthcare concerns, immigration issues, the oppressive and discriminatory treatment of African Americans and Hispanics. Concerns are growing about the economy and the impact of a new depression.  Given the myriad of issues and the growing debates in various pockets of the country, do you believe the emphasis on swing states removes the incentive for a large part of the population to follow the campaign, or even to vote?
Be certain to support your response with information from the reading, lecture, and outside sources if necessary.  Please cite any outside sources used to support your position.