Urgent Statement from APWU President Mark Dimondstein: Defending Our Public Postal Service Against Threats

According to The Washington Post, the Trump Administration is planning to fire the Postal Board of Governors and shift control of the United States Postal Service (USPS) to the Commerce Department.

If this is true, it raises serious concerns. The USPS is a vital part of our nation, established by Congress to serve every American fairly and equally. Any move against it could harm not just postal workers but also the millions who rely on its services every day.

The USPS plays a crucial role in a $1.2 trillion mail and shipping industry that supports over 7 million jobs across the country. Efforts to privatize the Postal Service or alter its mission would lead to higher postage rates and poorer services, particularly in rural areas.

In 1970, postal workers went on strike to secure collective bargaining rights and eliminate political influence within the agency. The Postal Reorganization Act, which followed, established the modern USPS as an independent entity focused on public service. It clearly states that the Postal Service is a crucial service provided by the government, backed by the Constitution and Congress.

This law also created the Postal Board of Governors, giving it the authority to hire and fire the Postmaster General. Any attempt by the administration to dismiss the Board or its executives would violate this law.

The Board of Governors is reportedly gearing up to challenge this attempted takeover. The American Postal Workers Union (APWU) stands firmly with them in this fight.

The Postal Service truly belongs to the people, serving their interests. Postal workers are committed to providing essential services, regardless of who is in power. Together, postal workers, unions, and the public will advocate for a strong, independent, and accessible Postal Service for all.