Letter to the editor: Voters should have skin in the game

Let me begin by saying that I am all for overhauling the election system. Ballots must be traceable and certifiable through an auditing process. No electronic voting machines that can be compromised through internet hacking or other mischief may be permitted.

Mail-in voting must only be available to those with legitimate reasons for not being able to vote in person, such as military deployment, being away from home, extended hospitalization, nursing home care, etc. One ballot for each “qualified” voter, and you must be an American citizen to vote in an election. You must be have a valid form of identification … driver’s license, U.S. passport, Social Security card, etc.

But I am going to take it one step further. You must have “skin in the game.” What do I mean by this? You must show proof that you have paid taxes to the federal, state and local government. You must be employed or retired, showing that you are a tax-paying citizen in good standing. You must “own a stake” in the future of this country. Why should anyone be allowed to vote for politicians who promise “free stuff” paid for by those of us who work (or have worked) and pay taxes? That is a conflict of interest, and that is one of the many reasons why this country is where it is today.

George Silowash

Penn Township, Westmoreland County