Kat, I think the same thing, sorta. Except that I don't think voting should be *mandatory* -- if they don't care enough to vote I don't want 'em poking whichever holes or pulling whichever levers just so they can leave.

But knowing HOW to vote should be required. We require immigrants to take a citizenship test before they can earn the right to vote; why do we assume that if you were born here, you know these things? They may teach it in school, but if you can graduate without knowing how to read, it'll be a long time before understanding the framework of the Constitution is required.

I'm all for a citizenship test to vote. NO exceptions. Pop quiz, answer two out of 3 current events questions right on the computer before it spits out your ballot? Local events for local elections, state events for state elections, etc. Or a test you have to take periodically, like a driver's test?

Only thing is, I don't see how to make it fair and non-discriminatory. Unscrupulous election officials would turn it to their advantage if they could figure out a way.

*sigh*