In a recent Forbes op-ed, Bill Flax opines that universal sufferage is a horrible, terrible thing foisted on Americans by political correctness. People who don't pay taxes (by which he means those who get refunds or refundable tax credits) shouldn't be able to vote. People on the dole shouldn't be able to vote. His bulleted suggestions:
- A basic literacy assessment;
- A non-partisan test ensuring competency of basic constitutional principles;
- A stake in the community reflected by property, employment or other measures;
- Restrict the franchise to lessen conflicts of interest regarding state employees, lobbyists, contractors, etc.;
- Surrender one’s voting privileges when seeking public assistance.
Stop me if you've heard any of these before...
