According to jefferson, why might some observers have misread the presidential election of 1800

At this time, the elections were based on popular votes, and the electoral college didn't exist. Jefferson was made vice president and his friend, John Adams, who was a member of the opposing party was made president. There is a possibility that the votes weren't counted correctly. There is also the possibility that the voting process was based on popularity and not efficiency.
 Hope this helps! :)
~ erudite