US President Donald Trump may attempt to absorb the US Postal Service (USPS) into his administration by issuing an executive order that would dissolve the service’s leadership, potentially making mail voting more difficult.
The move could be swiftly challenged as a violation of the Constitution and the Postal Reorganization Act. If upheld, it would give Trump direct control over the agency handling mail ballots, which Republicans have disparaged as a means of election fraud.
Critics argue that this could damage voters’ trust in mail voting, which relies on the public’s centuries-old confidence in the USPS. It could also pave the way for privatization, upending how Americans vote by mail and receive critical deliveries like prescription drugs.
Experts warn that Trump’s intentions may be part of a plan to limit mail ballots. The order specifically disbands the USPS board of governors and puts the service under the control of the Department of Commerce, which has expressed interest in privatizing USPS.
Some potential consequences include requiring postage on ballots, potentially nullifying thousands of votes. This could be a clear example of Trump’s attempts to restrict voting options and limit electoral access.
Experts point out that history is replete with examples of presidents using the postal service for political gain. The current move could lead to a “patron engine” system, where lucrative contracts and jobs are awarded in exchange for partisan donations and allegiance.
The potential takeover has sparked concerns among voters and election officials, who fear it would undermine the independence of the USPS and compromise the integrity of the electoral process.
Source: https://www.democracydocket.com/analysis/trump-postal-service-executive-order-mail-voting-threat