The US Postal Service (USPS) is facing a day of action in more than 150 cities as workers and advocates protest what they see as an “illegal hostile takeover” by the Trump administration. The proposed transfer of the USPS to the Department of Commerce would strip it of its independence, leading to potential job losses, price increases, and service reductions, especially in rural areas.
President Trump’s officials are weighing plans to privatize the service, with some suggesting it could be sold off for parts. Mark Dimondstein, president of the American Postal Workers Union, warns that such a move would lead to “higher prices and reduced service, especially in rural areas.” The union has seen significant criticism over consolidation efforts under Louis DeJoy’s 10-year austerity plan.
Some 300 public interest groups, including Porter McConnell of the Save the Post Office Coalition, have been vocal in their opposition to the proposed changes. McConnell notes that Congress forced the USPS to turn a profit in 1970, despite its constitutional purpose being to bind the nation together through communication.
Protesters point out that privatization would result in higher prices and eliminated services, especially for rural areas that rely on the USPS. The administration has faced criticism over potential job losses, with reports suggesting plans to cut 10,000 jobs through a voluntary retirement program within the next 30 days. Some experts argue that President Trump’s push for privatization is driven by corporate interests rather than serving the public interest.
As cities across the US hold demonstrations and rallies in support of the day of action, advocates are emphasizing their opposition to any plans that could harm the USPS and its services.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/mar/20/usps-postal-service-trump-protest