Trump Considers Changes To US Postal Service

President Donald Trump speaks

President Donald Trump is considering changes to the US Postal Service, potentially paving the way for privatization. This move could have significant implications for how Americans receive essential deliveries, including online purchases, prescription drugs, checks, and vote-by-mail ballots. The USPS, which has been an independent organization for over 50 years, is currently mandated by law to deliver to all addresses, even those in rural areas that may not be profitable for private businesses to serve.

Furthermore, the Trump administration has initiated shakeups in various federal agencies. Notably, the National Labor Relations Board and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission have seen members being dismissed, leaving these agencies unable to provide necessary protections to the public.

Dismissals in federal agencies like NLRB and EEOC may hinder public protections.

USPS potential privatization could impact essential deliveries and vote-by-mail.

USAID faces dismantling concerns, while NIH funding cuts are blocked by a judge.

In other developments:

• USAID: A federal judge has allowed the Trump administration to proceed with dismantling the US Agency for International Development, a decision that may be appealed. Employees have expressed concerns about the rushed process and its impact on their safety.
• NIH: A federal judge has blocked the Trump administration's cuts in medical research funding, citing potential risks to patients and delays in critical studies. The National Institutes of Health, a major funder of biomedical research, awarded significant grants last year.
• DOGE and NASA: House Democrats have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest between the Department of Government Efficiency and NASA, particularly regarding Elon Musk's involvement with DOGE and SpaceX.
• ICE: Acting ICE Director Caleb Vitello is reportedly being removed from his role due to frustrations over a slowdown in arrests in the US interior. President Trump has privately expressed dissatisfaction with deportation levels.
• CDC Rally: Current and former CDC staff gathered for a rally at the Georgia State Capitol, describing their workplace as chaotic and alarming. Signs with messages like 'CDC Saves Lives' were displayed, highlighting the importance of the agency's work.