SE Kansas City News

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, who has represented Missouri’s 5th District in the U.S. Congress since 2005, marked the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Postal Service with a series of posts on July 26, 2025, highlighting its historic and ongoing role in American society.

In his first post on July 26, Cleaver stated, "The U.S. Postal Service is 250 years old today. That’s 2.5 centuries of public service – connecting people, communities, and democracy. And it’s still one of the most beloved institutions in the country.

Before the Constitution was ratified, we had the post office. It’s how we https://t.co/kIb0blZEMX"

He continued his tribute to the USPS by noting its present-day significance: "Today, USPS still delivers vital medications, paychecks, and Social Security benefits to millions. And in 2020, it helped preserve our democracy, delivering over 135 million ballots during a pandemic. https://t.co/jxK23RE5EI" (July 26).

Cleaver concluded his remarks with gratitude for postal workers: "Today, I’m proud to celebrate 250 years of this public treasure. Here’s to 250 years! And thank you to every postal worker who makes it all happen.

#HandsOffUSPS" (July 26).

Cleaver's comments come as he continues his tenure representing Missouri’s 5th District in Congress—a position he has held since replacing Karen McCarthy in 2005—and reflect both his longstanding public service and commitment to national institutions. Born in Waxahachie, Texas in 1944 and now residing in Kansas City at age 78, Cleaver graduated from Prairie View A&M University with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1972.

The United States Postal Service was established before the ratification of the Constitution and remains an integral part of daily life for many Americans by providing essential services such as medication delivery and facilitating democratic participation through mail-in ballots.