Why the Post Office Remains Open During Government Shutdowns: An Insight into Budgetary Realities
During the last 25 years, Democrats in the US Congress have steadfastly refused to engage in a rational process or discussion about the national budget. This inaction has become a significant scandal, as the Constitution mandates that budget responsibilities rest at the top of the list for Congress.
The traditional budget process was designed to hold individual committees accountable for their fiscal decisions. However, recent practices have moved towards a periodic vote on Continuing Resolutions (CRs), which simply extend existing funding without truly forcing accountability. CRs have been pejoratively termed “kicking the can down the road.”
The Failure of Congressional Budget Processes
This failure within Congress is the primary reason for the rapid growth in federal spending, posing a real threat to America’s financial independence. The phrase "government shutdown" is often used to create fear among the public, yet it is a concept invented by the media and does not accurately depict the situation.
Understanding the US Post Office's Funding Mechanism
The United States Postal Service (USPS) is not funded by Congress; instead, it generates revenue through the fees it charges for its services. When you drop a letter into the mail, you buy a stamp. This fee not only pays for the service but also ensures the USPS can operate independent of congressional funding during a shutdown. During a government shutdown, Congress fails to write checks to pay for government operations, leading to some departments ceasing to function. However, the USPS remains unaffected as it is entirely self-funded.
Historical and Traditional Significance of the Post Office
The USPS’s role in national mail delivery has a history and tradition deeply rooted in America. Initially, it was a tool for sovereignty and then a means to provide a service to voters. The famous phrase "Neither rain nor sleet will keep us from our appointed rounds" embodies the dedication of the postal service's workforce. This historical significance suggests that a government's inability to deliver mail could indicate broader issues that may affect its ability to maintain voter support.
Conclusion
A government that cannot fulfill basic functions such as mail delivery risks eroding public trust and support. By understanding the funding mechanisms and historical significance of the US Post Office, one can appreciate why it remains operational during government shutdowns, in stark contrast to other government departments.