I refer to the report American offers his vote to Malaysiakini readers in which that American, Eric Ossemig, said that he is barred from running from his nation's highest office by virtue of his birth place.

Actually, it matters not where the person is born. If they are born of American citizens then they will never have to be naturalised and can run for president of the United States. Aliens can serve in America's armed forces, so if Ossemig is a Dane (who served in the US Army) then it is true, he cannot run for president.

There is a reason for this over 200-year-old rule and it is arcane, but mostly correct. The point is that the office of the president of the US should be firmly rooted in its past and present. I don't really have a problem with it.

As far as Ossemig farming out his vote, well, I think he has misinterpreted his civic duty, especially with the rationale he has presented - 'America influences other countries, so other countries should have an influence'.

That is kind of like saying 'because our national interests intertwine with those of other countries, I think they should have a say in who is elected into the presidency'. Well, then I suppose reciprocity is in order and we should be able to have our vote as individual citizens in the presidential elections of other countries as well. Preposterous.

Still, even if Ossemig allows his vote to be influenced by millions of people, his single vote will carry just that weight. One vote.

I respect people that vote on their principles, politics and values. Ossemig is willing to allow other people to influence that. He has lost sight of the issue and has surrendered his sacred voice to an outside influence.

I hope he has fun with that. It is a gimmick that will interest some people.