Press Releases

Today, Reps. Gerry Connolly (VA-11), Alma S. Adams, Ph.D (NC-12), and Peter DeFazio (OR-04) were joined by 77 additional House Democrats in requesting that President Joe Biden fill the existing vacancies on the United States Postal Service’s Board of Governors as quickly as possible.

“Louis DeJoy’s tenure as President Trump’s handpicked Postmaster General has been one of deliberate sabotage, draconian service cuts, and craven partisanship,” said Connolly. “Tragically, he has been given free rein to inflict such damage by a partisan, ineffective, and incomplete Board of Governors. The Postal Service cannot continue to operate without dedicated leadership who believe in its mission and will fight for its success. I urge President Biden to quickly fill the vacancies on the Board of Governors with individuals who respect this treasured American institution and who will work tirelessly to restore it for the use of generations to come.” 

“As we look to ameliorate the effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we are eager to work with President Biden to build the United States Postal Service back better,” said Rep. Adams. “Filling the vacancies on the Postal Service Board of Governors with strong, passionate advocates who will help secure its long-term health will ensure the Postal Service continues to serve all Americans in a nonpartisan, effective manner.” 

“Americans depend on a fully functional Postal Service for vital needs, including the delivery of prescription drugs, groceries, ballots, and more. The Trump administration’s failure to fill all the vacancies on the Board of Governors has led to zero oversight of the rampant mismanagement at the Postal Service under Trump megadonor and Postmaster General Louis DeJoy” said DeFazio. “Appointing Democrats to the three remaining vacancies will provide the leadership the agency needs to operate in a more nonpartisan matter, explore implementing reforms to expand USPS revenues, allow for the serious consideration of removing Postmaster General DeJoy, and help this essential service better serve the American people.”

The Board of Governors of the United States Postal Service functions as its board of directors, and comprises 11 individuals, including nine Governors, nominated by the President of the United States and confirmed by the Senate. The Board of Governors has the power to appoint and dismiss the Postmaster General and the Deputy Postmaster General, who serve as members of the Board following their hiring.

A copy of the letter is available here.