The comment about 19 witnesses also misunderstands how Steem consensus works.

Unlike BTS there is not a set number of witnesses. The top 19 are primary witnesses but everyone else who gets at least one vote is a timeshared backup witness (more votes means more time). In fact you can just vote yourself in as a timeshared witness. It absolutely makes sense to vote for people who aren't in the top 19 if you think they are good witnesses. One in particular who comes to mind is masteryoda, who seems capable and an all-around good guy (though I only know him briefly from online). He has my votes and IMO should get a few more votes, but that is not to disparage anyone else.