The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is facing significant financial challenges, having lost $9.5 billion in the fiscal year 2024 alone. Over the past fifteen years, it has accumulated losses exceeding $100 billion. In light of these struggles, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has proposed that the USPS take on the task of conducting the U.S. Census, arguing that it could save taxpayers billions.
Lutnick believes the USPS could efficiently handle the census because it already has the necessary resources, such as vehicles and a network that reaches every household. However, critics warn that this could exacerbate existing issues, such as mail delays, privacy concerns, and potential information theft. Instead of assigning this responsibility to an agency that is already financially strained, they argue that the government should explore more modern methods for conducting the census.
The original approach to the census, established by the Founding Fathers, involved physically counting citizens by sending marshals door-to-door. This method, however, is outdated. Many countries have adopted more efficient strategies, using existing data from various government systems to compile population statistics. For example, countries like Switzerland and Norway use linked databases to create accurate population counts without the need for in-person visits.
The U.S. could follow suit by utilizing already available data, such as tax records and information from social safety nets. This would not only streamline the process but could also be more cost-effective. The Government Accountability Office has classified the Census as a “high-risk program” due to rising costs. The 2020 Census, for instance, cost around $14 billion, and expenses are expected to rise further for the next census in 2030 unless there are significant reforms.
Moreover, the USPS has its own financial issues, including a $10 billion investment in electric vehicles that has not yet yielded results. Given these challenges, many believe it would be unwise to hand over the census to an organization struggling to manage its current responsibilities.
Instead of relying on traditional door-to-door counting, experts suggest that the government should consider innovative ways to gather data. This could involve conducting surveys or using samples to reach populations that typically do not respond to government inquiries. This approach could help ensure a more accurate count while also being less expensive.
In summary, while the idea of having the USPS conduct the census may seem practical at first glance, it raises significant concerns about efficiency, privacy, and cost. A reevaluation of how the U.S. counts its citizens is essential, especially in an era where digital recordkeeping is prevalent.