The head of the US Postal Service, Louis DeJoy, has announced his intention to step down after a nearly five-year tenure. DeJoy, who took office in the summer of 2020 during President Donald Trump's first term, has faced challenges such as the coronavirus pandemic, surges in mail-in election ballots, and efforts to address financial losses through cost-cutting measures.
In a letter to the Postal Service Board of Governors, DeJoy expressed his desire for the board to begin the search for his successor. He highlighted the Postal Service's response to the pandemic and its commitment to serving the American people during times of high inflation and political turmoil.
During his tenure, DeJoy developed a 10-year plan aimed at modernizing operations and improving financial stability. This plan included measures to make mail delivery more efficient and cost-effective, such as consolidating mail processing centers. Critics have raised concerns about the impact of these consolidations on service quality, particularly in rural areas.
DeJoy's leadership also coincided with two presidential elections that saw an increase in mail-in ballots. His cost-cutting practices, such as limiting overtime payments for postal workers, faced scrutiny for contributing to delays in mail delivery. Despite these challenges, DeJoy emphasized the Postal Service's efforts to invest in facility upgrades and operational changes to enhance mail delivery speed.
Looking ahead, DeJoy has pledged to support a smooth transition to his successor and continue to assist in the Postal Service's evolution towards a more efficient and sustainable future.
