I am now learning about "Witnesses" after 5 1/2 months on Steemit and I have voted for you as one of my Witnesses. Keep up the good work.
To answer one of your questions, I think new minnows don't vote for witnesses as they are just trying to read and post blogs and comments. And understand how the financial system works. That is a big enough undertaking at the start. Most aren't interested in learning and understanding the Steemit platform itself. And there is a lot to learn and understand once someone like myself does get more involved.
I think the designated proof of stake is a very good way of maintaining the platform.
Thanks for commenting. I’m glad to hear you decided to learn more and am grateful for your support.