[Matl]

> Is this feedback process the explanation for why those previously underperforming and frequently complained about government departments have now been fixed?

Perhaps the constant demonizing of public services by private interests, (who btw often rely on government contracts to function), and certain politicians bought by these interests could be a contributing factor in why not?

But let me hear about how private healthcare and broadband is killing it please.

[sokoloff]

I think that's a lot of the issue: many people (including myself) are in fact happy with their private healthcare and broadband service.

(I have Comcast, so it's not like I've even got the "best", but I'd way rather deal with Comcast or Blue Cross than any government agency...)

[default-kramer]

Counter-anecdote: I've only had AT&T and Time Warner Cable (now "Spectrum") and I would rather deal with any government agency than either of those two. Specifically I would rate my water+sewer and electricity 5/5 stars while I would rate TWC and AT&T something close to negative infinity.

[nicoburns]

Are you imagining a monolithic federal-level agency? Most municipal broadband schemes are run like small non-profit businesses that just happen to be publicly/community owned.

Let me put it this way: Comcast is the only reason why a lot of the US doesn't have gigabit internet at cheap prices.