Featured May 17, 2023 A new video series that explains how our federal government works Back to Blog ‘Our Government Explained’ Season 2 reveals how federal agencies shape our everyday lives Date October 15, 2024 | Updated on October 11, 2024 Authors Dieynaba Talla Tags Partnership Insights A spring 2024 poll by the Partnership for Public Service found that just 23% of Americans trust the federal government, with less than one-third believing it has a positive impact on the U.S. Fortunately, the Partnership’s “Our Government Explained” series is trying to bridge the gap, offering quick and easy-to-understand videos that illuminate our government’s role in ensuring our health, safety and prosperity. The first three episodes of “Our Government Explained” Season 2 feature videos that explore where our tax dollars go and how federal agencies work to improve student education, protect workers and keep us safe when we travel. Taxes: Where does the money go? Our first episode is a deep dive on the topic of taxes, featuring IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. This video answers common questions about where our tax dollars go and explains how they fund essential services like national defense, infrastructure, education and health care. The episode also traces the history of taxation in the U.S., helping viewers understand the vital role taxes play in meeting public needs. “Without the IRS, there wouldn’t be funding for the U.S. government to keep our air safe, our roads safe… and on, and on and on,” Werfel said. Travel safety: Protecting you on every journey Our next episode uncovers the critical work federal agencies do to protect Americans when they travel, whether by conducting airport screenings, issuing travel advisories or managing international relations to safeguard U.S. travelers abroad. The departments of Education and Labor: Building better futures for all The third video of our second season highlights the federal government’s commitment to improving educational outcomes for all learners and ensuring fair treatment in the workplace. “From our earliest days in school, the Department of Education is there, working in the background—on policy for programs designed to educate state and local agencies to improve student achievement,” our narrator explained. Two directors at Education and a deputy administrator at Labor discuss programs and initiatives that create safer, more equitable work environments and help students thrive. Tying it all together: Government’s role in our everyday lives These first three episodes offer viewers a clearer picture of how our government works behind the scenes to support and protect us. The Partnership for Public Service is committed to helping the public better understand and appreciate our government. If you missed any episodes from Season 1 or want to dive deeper into Season 2, check out our YouTube channel and stay tuned for more episodes.
