In the early days of our republic, voters were required to have some “stake” in the success of the society, in general. This was typified by real property ownership or a business proprietorship of some sort or some other tangible measure of commitment to the success of the community.
Not real sure how it came about, but the concept of “universal suffrage” - one person, one vote - regardless of the position in, or commitment to the success of the society became the accepted measure to qualify for voting privileges. I suspect universal suffrage gained widespread appeal because of its perceived “equality for all” mantra and a way to normalize political power between “the haves” and “the have nots” of society.
I’m no longer sure the idea of ‘universal suffrage’ is the best way to proceed in order to protect and advance the future of the republic. Can’t help but wonder how some of the members of Congress got there... Hank Johnson [of floating Guam fame] comes to mind, among others... Just seems like there’s got to be a better way.
Not real sure how it came about, but the concept of “universal suffrage” - one person, one vote - regardless of the position in, or commitment to the success of the society became the accepted measure to qualify for voting privileges. I suspect universal suffrage gained widespread appeal because of its perceived “equality for all” mantra and a way to normalize political power between “the haves” and “the have nots” of society.
I’m no longer sure the idea of ‘universal suffrage’ is the best way to proceed in order to protect and advance the future of the republic. Can’t help but wonder how some of the members of Congress got there... Hank Johnson [of floating Guam fame] comes to mind, among others... Just seems like there’s got to be a better way.