Hey, Do We Really Want Trump to Control Our Mail? Protecting the US Postal Service and Its Workers
- Jason Zuk
- Feb 21, 2025
- 5 min read
Written by Jason Zuk, The Social Psychic
The United States Postal Service (USPS) has been a vital part of American life for over 200 years, linking communities and serving millions daily. Yet, recent political developments have jeopardized its independence, particularly under President Trump. This situation calls for action. We must recognize and advocate for a strong postal service that operates free from political influence. This post explores the importance of protecting the USPS and its dedicated workforce from harmful cuts and misguided reforms.
The USPS is more than just a mail carrier; it's a crucial support system for millions of Americans. From handling over 142 billion pieces of mail each year to providing vital services like voting and delivering medications, the USPS is essential to our daily lives. However, this cornerstone of our communication is under threat from privatization and political influence, making it urgent for us to champion its cause and ensure the rights and welfare of those who work for it.
The Importance of Independence
One of the main reasons we need to protect the USPS is to preserve its independence from political motives. When a public service like the postal service operates under the sway of a political figure, its effectiveness can suffer. Trump's past attempts to influence the USPS for his own ends raise serious concerns. For instance, during the 2020 election, he and his allies tried to undermine mail-in voting, which many Americans relied on during the pandemic.
When the USPS faces cuts or political instability, everyday citizens feel the consequences. For example, timely mail delivery is especially critical for veterans receiving crucial benefits or patients awaiting medical prescriptions. The pressures on the USPS can lead to delays that directly affect people's lives.
The Threat of Cuts and Reforms
Discussions about budget cuts and reforms raise significant alarms. Imagine a USPS that struggles to meet its delivery commitments. In 2020 alone, 64% of Americans reported that they were reliant on USPS for timely mail and package delivery. The prospect of diminished service quality not only inconveniences individuals but jeopardizes small businesses that depend on reliable shipping for their success.
Advocating against proposed budget reductions is imperative. Defunding the USPS could lead to job losses, decreased service availability, and ultimately harm the very fabric of community connections.
Engage with your elected representatives in Congress and the Senate to ensure your voice is heard on important issues. Reach out through calls or emails, stating your name, location, and the issue you wish to discuss. Personal contact can significantly impact their attention. In emails, be concise and include personal stories or data to strengthen your message. Follow up to reinforce your stance. This engagement informs representatives of constituents' opinions, fostering accountability and encouraging action in the public's best interest. Your participation in this democratic process is vital for shaping policies.
Engaging with your elected representatives is a vital aspect of participating in the democratic process. Here’s how you can contact your U.S. Senators and House Representative through various methods:
1. Identify Your Representatives
• U.S. Senators: Each state has two senators. To find yours, visit the U.S. Senate’s official website and select your state from the “Find Your Senators” pull-down menu.
• U.S. House Representative: Representation in the House is based on congressional districts. Locate your representative by entering your ZIP code on the House of Representatives’ website.
2. Contact Methods
Phone:
• Senate: Call the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121. An operator will connect you to your senator’s office.
• House: Dial (202) 225-3121 to reach the House switchboard, which can direct you to your representative’s office.
• Email:
• Senators: Most senators provide web contact forms on their official websites. Access these via the Senate’s contact page.
• Representatives: House members also offer contact forms on their websites. Find your representative’s site through the House directory.
Note: Direct email addresses are not always publicly available; using the provided contact forms ensures your message reaches the intended office.
• Postal Mail:
Senators:
The Honorable [Senator's Name]
United States Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510
Representatives:
The Honorable [Representative's Name]
United States House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
Including your return address is essential for a response.
Texting:
While Congress does not universally support direct text messaging, services like Resistbot allow you to send messages to your representatives via text. Text “resist” to 50409, and the service will guide you through the process of composing and sending your message.
3. Tips for Effective Communication
• Be Concise and Specific: Clearly state the purpose of your message, referencing specific bills or issues.
• Identify Yourself: Provide your full name and address to verify that you are a constituent.
• Use Appropriate Channels: For urgent matters, phone calls may receive quicker responses. For detailed concerns, written communication allows for thorough explanation.
By utilizing these methods, you can effectively reach out to your elected officials and ensure your voice is heard on issues that matter to you.
Workers’ Rights Matter
It is essential to recognize the postal workers, who serve as the backbone of the USPS. They ensure our mail reaches its destination, often working long hours amid challenging conditions. Protecting their rights and ensuring fair treatment is a vital part of our advocacy.
With e-commerce on the rise, USPS plays a critical role. In fact, about 75% of packages shipped in the United States in 2022 were handled by USPS. Ensuring that postal workers are supported and respected is crucial. We must stand firmly against cuts that threaten their jobs and livelihoods.
Collective Action for Reform
Advocating for the USPS requires collective action. Start conversations within your community about the importance of preserving the postal service. Initiate letter-writing campaigns to reach local representatives and stress the value of USPS. When we unite as a community, we amplify our voices and can effect meaningful change.
You can join local advocacy groups focused on protecting the postal service. Participating in meetings and supporting postal workers’ rights initiatives represents a proactive step towards ensuring the USPS’s survival and independence.
The Future of the USPS
Envision a future where the USPS continues to operate effectively and independently, unaffected by political interference. This future can be realized, but we all must contribute to this cause. A fully functioning postal service ensures everyone, regardless of background, has access to vital communication and services.
The USPS has long stood as a great equalizer in our nation, ensuring every American can communicate effectively. Protecting this service is essential for fostering equality within our communities.
Time to Rally Behind Our Postal Service
Now is the moment for us to advocate for the USPS. By supporting the postal service and its hardworking employees, we help secure a better tomorrow for our communities. With potential cuts and the threat of political control looming, we must raise our voices to protect this essential service.
Let’s unite, fight for the integrity of our mail system, and honor the dedication of the workers who make it all possible. Taking action today can pave the way for an independent and resilient postal service for generations to come.
As you share this message, remember that every effort counts. Write to your representatives, engage in community discussions, and support local initiatives backing postal workers. Together, we can ensure that the USPS continues to provide reliable and independent service to all Americans.
