Well, I dont think that eliminating Universal Sufferage is entirely a good idea. Everyone who is a citizen has the right to vote.
However, I agree with the argument that being a politician should be made much less lucrative, and the "free rides" provided by the government should be cancelled to everyone. People who want to become US citizens should be doing so because they want to become a citizen and have a chance to
make a better life for themselves, and
not have a better life handed to them. I dont have a better life handed to me when I am born in this country (some do, but no one should), and just because someone is a foreign national wanting a better life doesnt mean that they should get a free pass.
I too may catch flak, but a very small test should be administered (one that I wouldnt pass the first time...
) : Every person who votes must list or speak (in english on both counts) 3 elements or views of each candidate for one race. If several races (senate, house, dog catcher, etc) are on the ballot, then the highest race is the one tested on. If someone is going to be voting, they had damned well be educated on what issues they are voting on. None of this "feel good for the children mindlessness, because they are pretty, or smart, or because Billy Bob at the caucus said so, or such like'' voting crap.