I think the President of the United States should be picked by lottery...

[Solon]

Seriously, the last thing we want is someone who WANTS the job, and it would cut down on the partisan politics, make it similar to Jury duty, just something citizens MAY have to do, at random, every 4 years or so.

[Jackeen]

1. You're not the first person to suggest it.

I believe it was the Red Mars trilogy that the President of Earth was selected by computer, on the basis that anyone who actually wanted the job could not be trusted enough to have it. I've always thought there's something to that. Put in various factors, like education, IQ, military service, whatever you want the computer to think about, and let it come up with the person most suitable for the position, whether they want it or not.

[twiceshy]

2. Just my luck...

I'd win this "lottery" and not the Megabucks. ;>)

[greiner3]

3. Assimov also did one I believe;

A person was picked by computer to serve one day as President of the World. This short story followed an average Joe through his 24 hours. It was neither pro nor con, as I remember correctly.

[rucky]

4. I keep thinking about my neighbor...

who wears a raincoat all the time, and wanders up and down the street muttering to himself.

[mmonk]

5. I like the suggestion by Lewis Black about

letting a monkey parachute from an airplane. When he lands, the first person he comes in contact with will be the president.

[Snellius]

6. That's how the Greeks did it originally

If I remember my history, the original Greek democracies elected officials by drawing lots among eligible citizens. They not only thought it was the only fair way to allow all citizens to participate in government, but they were also afraid of rule by either special interests or popular demagogues.