Why do Americans vote on Tuesdays?

[progressoid]

Believe it or not, there is a question—and there aren't all that many—that unites President Barack Obama and his challenger Mitt Romney. It's one that has an absolutely infuriating answer. Here's the question: "Why do we vote on Tuesday in the United States?"

Obama and Romney are united not in their knowledge of the answer, but in being stumped by it. Obama, as a presidential candidate in 2007, told a Harvard College student it's because it was a decision made by the states. Romney, on the other hand, came right out and said "I have no idea."

[iemitsu]

1. interesting.

[shawn703]

2. Before I watched the video, the cynic in me

Thought the answer was what Chris Rock opined in his statement in the video. Interesting to see the real reason.

[serqet]

3. I did know this...

can't remember when, but I think was about 25-30 years ago that I came upon this wxplanation.

[HopeHoops]

4. Because Thursday is "NO PANTS WONDER DAY!"

[dixiegrrrrl]

5. Voting would have to be BOTH days on a weekend then

since Sat. is a religious day for some groups.

[Esra Star]

6. If it was Wednesday it would wreck both weekends?? nt

[WhoIsNumberNone]

7. That's not the reason I've always heard

Although the "real" reason is still based in religion:
Election Day is on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November.
This formula is designed to prevent it falling on November 1st; All Saints Day.