Top USPS Leader Steps Down, Union Issues Warning

DeJoy Abruptly Steps Down as Postmaster General

The United States Postal Service (USPS) was shaken this week by the unexpected retirement of Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, prompting urgent calls from labor leaders to defend the agency from privatization threats.

DeJoy announced his immediate departure on Monday, informing USPS governors that “today will be my last day in this role.” Though he had previously mentioned plans to step down, the timing came as a surprise amid the agency’s ongoing financial difficulties and looming structural changes. Jack Gruber / USA TODAY NETWORK

USPS Faces $9.5B Loss, Job Cuts, and Privatization Push

The agency, grappling with a $9.5 billion loss in the fiscal year ending September 2024, is also facing scrutiny over planned job cuts and budget reductions. Earlier this month, DeJoy detailed plans to eliminate 10,000 jobs and cut billions in spending, as part of a partnership with Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk and former President Donald Trump have both supported privatizing USPS. Ekaterina Belinskaya / Pexels

Union Leader Warns of Privatization Threat Under New Leadership

Mark Dimondstein, the leader of the American Postal Workers Union (APWU), issued a warning against potential privatization efforts in the wake of DeJoy’s resignation. He told CNN that the USPS must beware of “a White House intent on breaking up and selling off the public United States Postal Service.” He continued, “I’ve said it before, and I will say it again, this attack on the USPS is part of the ongoing coup by oligarchs against the vital public services APWU members and other public servants provide to the country. Privatized postal services will lead to higher postage prices, and a lower quality of service to the public.” David Rodriguez Muñoz / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

DeJoy Defends Record, Names Tulino as Interim Chief

Despite criticism during his nearly five-year tenure, DeJoy defended his legacy. “While our management team and the men and women of the Postal Service have established the path toward financial sustainability and high operating performance […] much work remains,” he wrote. He expressed pride in transitioning leadership to Deputy Postmaster General Doug Tulino, who will serve as interim chief until a permanent successor is selected. Jack Gruber-USA TODAY

Search Begins for 76th Postmaster General

The USPS confirmed it has retained executive search firm Egon Zehnder to lead the hunt for the agency’s 76th Postmaster General. The USPS Board of Governors, all presidential appointees confirmed by the Senate, are overseeing the process. In a statement, the agency emphasized its aim to choose a leader who can “drive innovation, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen the Postal Service’s role as a trusted part of American life.” SoFuego / Pixabay

Board Chair Praises DeJoy’s Leadership in Time of Uncertainty

Amber McReynolds, Chair of the USPS Board of Governors, praised DeJoy’s tenure. “Louis DeJoy has steadfastly served the nation and the Postal Service over the past five years […] I commend Postmaster General DeJoy for inspiring the Postal Service with strategic direction, a competitive spirit, and a culture of achievement.”

The timeline for selecting DeJoy’s successor remains unclear, but the agency has promised to provide updates “as appropriate.” Ekaterina Belinskaya / Pexels