Congress Faces Criticism Over Fiscal Mismanagement and Shutdowns

Concerns about fiscal management have intensified as political stalemates in the United States lead to government shutdowns, affecting citizens across the country. Recent events highlight the stark contrast between the mismanagement of resources in the U.S. and the dire conditions in places like Cuba, where governance issues have left many without basic necessities.

Lessons from Cuba’s Governance

During a recent mission trip to rural Cuba, a Dallas resident’s daughter witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by impoverished Cubans. In areas outside of Havana, the electricity supply is limited to just two or three unscheduled hours each day. When power is restored, residents quickly prepare meals, primarily consisting of rice and beans, before the electricity is cut off again.

Once regarded as the “gem of the Caribbean,” Cuba has devolved into a state reminiscent of the Great Depression, with government policies favoring elites over ordinary citizens. Reports indicate that the Cuban government routinely confiscates crops from farmers without compensation, further exacerbating poverty in agricultural regions.

This situation serves as a stark reminder of how mismanagement can lead to widespread suffering, a theme echoed in the governance challenges facing the U.S.

Political Stalemate and Its Impact on Citizens

The recent political shutdown in the United States, attributed to a partisan deadlock among Congress members, has disrupted countless lives. As flight cancellations occurred due to the impasse over government spending, travelers found themselves stranded, including Jenkins’ daughter, who spent a night at the Memphis airport while trying to return home to Dallas.

The ongoing political discord has raised questions about how Congress has expanded the national debt to the point where bipartisan agreement on federal priorities seems increasingly elusive. With a national deficit that continues to grow, Congress faces pressure to collect sufficient taxes to fund programs like the Social Security Retirement and Medicare, which were originally designed to be self-sustaining.

Since the introduction of Social Security on August 14, 1935, the average life expectancy has increased from 65 to approximately 78.4 years. Despite this significant shift, Congress has struggled to adapt the retirement age to current realities, reflecting a broader unwillingness to take accountability for fiscal policies that have led to underfunding.

Jenkins draws parallels between the lack of fiscal responsibility in both the U.S. and Cuba, suggesting that those in power exhibit an attitude reminiscent of historical figures who disregarded the plight of the common people. He argues that when congressional representatives fail to establish borrowing limits or agree on budget cuts, it is the citizens who bear the burden.

As the government has reopened following the recent shutdown, the cycle may continue. With critical deadlines approaching in January regarding federal debt limits, citizens may find themselves facing similar challenges once more. Jenkins calls for increased civic engagement, urging “We the People” to demand accountability from their representatives to ensure responsible governance and financial management.

The ongoing situation underscores the urgent need for effective governance that prioritizes the welfare of all citizens, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Without significant changes, the cycle of fiscal mismanagement and political impasse is likely to continue, leaving many to wonder how long such mismanagement will persist.