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Manchin, Capito ignore scoring partisan points

What a shame so many members of Congress are more interested in scoring partisan points than in serving all Americans. Perhaps U.S. Sens. Shelley Moore Capito and Joe Manchin, of West Virginia, can show them how it’s done.

Manchin is a Democrat. Capito is a Republican. They have their differences and, in the past, have not been shy about standing up for their beliefs.

But both understand tens of millions of Americans — including many of their fellow West Virginians — need help to get through the COVID-19 epidemic. With much of the relief funding provided by the CARES Act about to run out, more money needs to be provided by Congress. Partisan bickering has delayed action on it.

Regarding a bill on the subject, Capito said there is “pretty good agreement” between Manchin and her. “But it’s gotten into a political arena,” she added.

“It’s the safety and wellbeing of all the citizens of West Virginia that we’re concerned about,” Manchin agreed.

What a simple philosophy: Worry about people first, politics second. Let’s hope Capito and Manchin can spread the word.

•••

U.S. Postal Service officials are considering another round of post office closures. Should West Virginians be worried about that?

Maybe. Maybe not. That is the USPS response to inquiries about which post offices may be on the chopping block.

U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., has said USPS officials told him no post office closures are planned “at this time.” A review of operations in the Appalachian District, which includes West Virginia and part of Virginia is under way, however. Closures of 12 post offices and curtailed hours at 24 others are being considered.

However, the USPS will not disclose which locations are involved, Manchin noted in a press release.

Why? Are USPS officials worried customers of affected locations may point out good reasons why they should remain open?

This is not a national security matter. When the USPS refuses to disclose such information to a United States senator, something is badly wrong. Members of Congress of both major parties should be angry enough to demand that change.

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