Here’s what Trump is planning to do.
President Donald Trump is reportedly planning to take control of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), an agency that has been a pillar of American infrastructure for more than two centuries. According to sources, the president may issue an executive order this week to dissolve the USPS governing board and incorporate the agency into his administration. This potential move could reshape the future of the USPS, including how it serves millions of Americans, particularly those in rural communities, and threaten its independence.
USPS has long been one of the most popular federal agencies in the country, with a 2024 Pew Research Center poll showing that 72% of Americans have a favorable opinion of it. The postal service reaches nearly 167 million addresses nationwide and employs over 525,000 workers. Despite its critical role in delivering essential services, especially to those in remote areas, the agency has faced severe financial challenges in recent years. In fiscal year 2024, USPS reported a staggering $9.5 billion loss, driven primarily by fixed costs like pension contributions and workers’ compensation claims. It is expected to lose an additional $6.9 billion in fiscal year 2025.
This financial strain has led Trump to consider dramatic changes, including the potential privatization of USPS, a discussion he first had with his commerce secretary nominee, Howard Lutnick, back in December. Trump has previously suggested that privatizing the service could bring it more in line with modern market conditions, as private companies like Amazon, UPS, and FedEx now dominate the delivery sector.
While some argue privatization would drive up costs and reduce services, particularly in rural areas, Trump’s supporters see the restructuring of USPS as an opportunity for reform. Under his administration, the Postal Service could undergo significant cost-cutting measures aimed at improving efficiency. These changes could include reducing delivery days, consolidating post offices, and implementing higher postage rates.
On the other hand, critics, including union leaders and Democrats, argue that any attempt to privatize USPS would harm the American people. Mark Dimondstein, president of the American Postal Workers Union (APWU), condemned the move, claiming it would harm the millions who depend on the Postal Service daily, especially in rural areas. Similarly, Rep. Gerry Connolly, a Democrat from Virginia, called privatization an attack on Americans’ access to vital services.
If Trump goes through with these plans, the agency will likely see widespread restructuring, potentially including layoffs and changes in working conditions for USPS employees. The goal would be to increase profitability and efficiency, but such changes could also result in fewer services, especially in rural America, and an increased financial burden on everyday users. Ultimately, the takeover of the Postal Service by Trump’s administration marks a pivotal moment for the agency, with potential long-term consequences for its workforce and the millions who rely on its services.