In many ways, I think the reduction of the voting period time would solve many of the problems. It keeps the trending page fresh, gives the average minnow a chance (or at leas the perception they have a chance) to make it there, it encourages engagement and penalizes bots. I don't think the message set was that everyone would get paid, it's about giving them the fair opportunity to get recognized for the content they generate.

I believe If the voting period is reduced, so much of the problem will be solved.