None of the Above

"Appeal to their emotions. Make them laugh. Make them cry. Make them mad--even if they get mad at you. But for heaven's sake, don't try to improve their minds."
--Jack Burden (All the President's Men)

Interesting idea. What if a 'None of the Above' (NOTA) option was required on all ballots? Selecting NOTA would permit voters to express lack of consent for any candidate up for election.

What if NOTA wins? Voter who select None of the Above are saying that no candidate is legitimate.

Many people do not vote because they see no legitimate choices on the ballot. NOTA supporters would not only be more likely to turn out, but they might actively campaign for NOTA. Groundswell support for NOTA would drive candidates toward more accountability.

Government size and scope would likely shrink as a result.