1. United States
2. Ariz.
3. Letter

It is critical to maintain the independence and self-governance of the United States Postal Service (USPS). The USPS has operated as an independent agency since the Postal Reorganization Act of 1970, providing essential mail delivery services across the nation without relying on taxpayer funds. Bringing it under executive branch control would undermine this longstanding model and jeopardize the reliable, affordable mail service Americans depend on. The Postal Service already faces significant financial challenges due to declining mail volume and the costs of employee benefits. Subjecting it to potential political interference and budget constraints as a federal agency could exacerbate these issues and disrupt operations. An independent USPS can make operational decisions based on service needs rather than partisan pressures. Moreover, the USPS workforce of over 600,000 has collective bargaining rights that helped build a pathway to the middle class for generations of Americans, especially minorities. Maintaining independence helps protect these workers' rights and livelihoods. For over 200 years, the Postal Service has bound the nation together through a commitment to universal service. Preserving its independent status and self-funded model is crucial to upholding this vital public service for all communities, from cities to rural areas. I urge you to safeguard the USPS's independence and ensure it can continue fulfilling its indispensable role efficiently and free from undue influence.