The phrase describes actions and events during the Trump administration perceived as attempts to exert political influence over the United States Postal Service (USPS). These actions included the appointment of Louis DeJoy as Postmaster General, followed by policy changes that caused mail delivery delays and raised concerns about potential voter disenfranchisement during the 2020 election. Examples included removing mail sorting machines and reducing overtime for postal workers.
The perceived attempts to control the USPS sparked significant controversy due to the agency’s critical role in delivering essential services, including medications, social security checks, and election ballots. Concerns arose that operational changes implemented could intentionally disrupt mail delivery, particularly impacting mail-in voting processes during a crucial election year. Historically, the USPS has maintained a degree of independence from direct political interference, and the described events challenged this traditional norm.
