[JadeNB]

Ah, good point. Pandemics make even ISPs and Trump seek to be seen to be acting in the public good. (But not Charter, and not hoarders.)

[ryanmercer]

Yeah, politicians need voters to not completely hate them so they can get re-elected. Imagine if instead politicians were selected by lottery, served shorter terms, and had their appointments staggered.

I wonder if any authors have given this a shot in fiction, I'd read it.

[JadeNB]

Well, there's https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Lottery_in_Babylon , but not in the realistic spirit that you probably intended. (There's also HHGttG's https://hitchhikers.fandom.com/wiki/Ruler_of_the_Universe , again in a different spirit.)

[ryanmercer]

The Lottery in Babylon sounds worth a read, thanks!