this is Shades of the Day — bringing you different shades of opinion in news & culture so that you can see the big picture quickly. We believe that seeing multiple POVs is the best way to stay informed.

It’s Monday, November 4 — here’s what you’ll find in today’s edition:

• A sponsored message from Spine Tingler, a horror+musical newsletter

• A primer on the Electoral College system

• The possibility of a second Civil War after the election

• 4 quick hits of news from the last 24 hours

Today’s Shades of the Day is sponsored by Spine Tingler, a free newsletter that breaks down the storytelling craft of horror movies & musical theater. Their latest edition covered The Haunting of Hill House, Sweeney Todd, Les Misérables, Rent, and Hadestown. You can subscribe below.

Electoral College 101

The Electoral College involves 538 electors distributed among the states and D.C. based on congressional representation. To win the presidency, a candidate must secure at least 270 electoral votes. CBS News says it balances representation between states with different population sizes.

Constitution Center breaks it down: Every four years, the Electoral College formally selects the President and Vice President. States often use a winner-takes-all method, with some exceptions.

But Le Monde says the system isn't as direct as it seems: Voters indirectly elect the President by selecting representatives ( aka “electors”) who make the official choice.

By the way, the New York Times says the Electoral College looms large in 2024: A deadlocked race could hinge on the Electoral College -- showing just how pivotal states and their electors can be.

A second Civil War?

USSC.edu sounded the alarm: Political tensions are high in the U.S.-- we're on the edge of political violence!! if Trump loses 2024, 28% of Republicans think violence might be necessary to set things “back on track”.

Political Wire says the threat is real to some: Some Americans join survivalist communities and stock up on weapons to prepare for a potential civil conflict.

The New Yorker also reported on the communities: Communities like Fortitude Ranch are focused on readiness, with members picking up survival skills and weapons.

But hold on -- NPR says political violence is far from inevitable: Military experts are exploring preventive measures to avoid potential unrest.

A Hill Op's take: The threat of another civil war is far exaggerated. Vague threats to “democracy” aren't tangible enough for voters to truly worry.

1) The 2024 election hinges on seven battleground states, where Trump and Harris are neck and neck.

2) Tropical Depression Eighteen could strengthen into Hurricane Rafael, affecting the Caribbean and U.S. Gulf Coast.

3) Critical races in states like Virginia and New York may offer early clues on which party will control the House.

4) Oklahoma was struck by severe storms and tornadoes, leaving destruction and thousands without power.