Context:

David Steiner, a FedEx board member, has been appointed as the new postmaster general of the US Postal Service, amid concerns about potential privatization under the Trump administration. Steiner, who is committed to maintaining USPS’s independence, succeeds Louis DeJoy, who resigned after five years of leadership that included managing the agency through the pandemic and financial challenges. Critics, including Rep. Gerry Connolly, express concerns over Steiner's appointment due to his ties with FedEx, with fears of conflict of interest and corporate influence. While Steiner plans to step down from FedEx’s board, his appointment coincides with President Trump's suggested changes to USPS, which include a potential merger for improved financial efficiency. Additionally, Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency have been involved in discussions about USPS restructuring, with plans to reduce workforce numbers already underway.

Dive Deeper:

• David Steiner, who has held leadership roles at FedEx and Waste Management, will now lead the USPS, succeeding Louis DeJoy, who resigned after a five-year tenure marked by navigating the agency through significant challenges such as the pandemic and financial losses.

• Steiner's appointment has raised concerns among politicians and unions due to his previous role with FedEx, a competitor to USPS, leading to accusations of conflict of interest and the potential for increased corporate influence over the postal service.

• Rep. Gerry Connolly and other Democratic leaders have voiced apprehensions regarding the potential loss of USPS's independence, fearing that Steiner's appointment is a strategic move by the Trump administration to push for USPS privatization.

• President Donald Trump has proposed major changes for USPS, including a merger to improve its financial performance, and suggested giving the Secretary of Commerce oversight of the agency, which could be a precursor to privatization efforts.

• Before leaving USPS, Louis DeJoy initiated a collaboration with Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, focusing on retirement assets and workforce reduction, with plans to cut 10,000 employees through early retirement, adding to previous reductions since 2021.