I agree that basic universal income will not at all be realistically presented by politicians and will be used to buy votes (similar to very high minimum wages). It sounds great to the average person "free money!" however they don't think through the implications of implementing such a program.
On the other hand, in the long run I wonder if such a program will be necessary. As automation continues to increase, not to mention increasingly complex AI, I don't see how a lot of people will be able to support themselves financially (as there just won't be the number of jobs available).
I think we're in for tough times ahead in terms of dealing with technological advancement as a society.
meep