Big Changes Ahead? USPS Could Move Under Commerce Department

According to senior officials familiar with the plan, the Trump administration is reviewing the option of moving the U.S. Postal Service from its current independent status to fall under the umbrella of the Department of Commerce.

This move is being discussed as part of broader government restructuring efforts, which were outlined in the President’s Management Agenda released during Trump’s term. The goal of the agenda is to “streamline the federal government” and make agencies more efficient.

However, transferring USPS to the Commerce Department would drastically alter its current operating model. The USPS has long functioned as an independent entity with a public service mission, providing affordable mail service to all Americans regardless of location.

Why the Trump Administration Wants to Make This Move

The administration argues that moving USPS under Commerce could improve financial oversight, operational efficiency, and make the service more “business-like.” The idea is that by making USPS more aligned with other federal business functions, it will reduce long-term costs and taxpayer burdens.

An anonymous senior official told The Washington Post:
“This isn’t about privatization. It’s about smarter governance.”

However, critics say the move could pave the way for future privatization or even deeper budget cuts, which could negatively affect rural areas and low-income communities that rely heavily on USPS.

Lawmakers and Workers Voice Concern

Several members of Congress, especially Democrats, have already expressed alarm over the potential shift. They argue that Postal Service workers, union leaders, and local communities have not been consulted.

Senator Bernie Sanders, a vocal defender of USPS, tweeted:
“The Postal Service is not a business to be privatized. It’s a public service. This is a step in the wrong direction.”

Organizations like the American Postal Workers Union (APWU) and the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) have also issued statements opposing the plan, warning that the move could weaken labor protections and increase costs for customers.

What Would Change If USPS Falls Under Commerce?

Currently, USPS operates under a semi-independent status established by the Postal Reorganization Act of 1970. It is self-funded and required to serve all U.S. residents at a uniform price.

If placed under the Commerce Department:

• USPS could be subject to more direct political control
• Policies could prioritize business operations over public service
• There may be a greater push for automation and digital mail systems
• Unionized workers may lose bargaining power
• Delivery times and pricing could shift to a market-driven model

The Commerce Department currently oversees entities like the Census Bureau, Patent and Trademark Office, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration—all of which function differently from a day-to-day service like USPS.

Impact on Rural and Elderly Populations

Many worry that such a change would severely affect rural areas and elderly citizens who rely on regular, low-cost postal delivery for prescription drugs, Social Security checks, and more.

The Brookings Institution points out that:
“USPS plays a vital role in bridging the geographic and digital divide.”

This could also increase the digital divide, as rural customers without reliable internet or private couriers would be hit the hardest if services are scaled down or privatized.

Is This the First Time USPS Has Faced a Major Shift?

Not at all. Over the years, USPS has gone through several proposals for reform. For instance:

• In 2018, a White House proposal even suggested full privatization
• USPS faced financial strain during the COVID-19 pandemic, requiring emergency aid
• Earlier in Trump’s presidency, Louis DeJoy’s appointment as Postmaster General led to controversy over mail delays

So while this new proposal isn’t entirely unprecedented, the scale of administrative change is among the most significant in modern USPS history.

Could This Move Actually Happen?

The proposal is currently under internal review, and would need approval from Congress, making its implementation uncertain.

A majority in Congress may resist this change, especially given the bipartisan value of USPS. Many lawmakers see USPS not just as a service, but as a symbol of national unity and equal access.

Additionally, because USPS has a unique legal status protected under federal law, significant legal and structural hurdles would need to be cleared.

Conclusion: A Controversial Shift with National Implications

The Trump administration’s idea to bring USPS under the Commerce Department has stirred a debate about the future of mail service in America.

On one side are those who believe in improving efficiency and integrating USPS into a broader economic framework. On the other are defenders of the current model, who argue that USPS’s role goes beyond profit—it’s about equal service for every American.

As the review continues, Americans across political lines are urged to stay informed, contact their local representatives, and participate in public discussion.

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