The Future of the USPS Under Biden's Administration: Can It Be Rescued?

The question of whether the current President, Joe Biden, will take steps to improve the US Postal Service (USPS) has been a recurring point of contention. Some argue that Biden could start by making changes, such as removing figures appointed by his predecessor, Donald Trump. However, others express skepticism about the possibility of meaningful reform.

Background and Current Situation

Firstly, it's important to understand that the President of the United States, Joe Biden, does not have the authority to directly appoint or dismiss the postmaster general. This role is governed by the Board of Governors, a governing body that oversees the USPS. The current postmaster general, Louis DeJoy, was appointed in June 2020 and will serve until resigned or terminated. The composition of the Board of Governors is heavily influenced by political appointments: of the 9 seats, 7 are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, with a requirement that no more than 5 can be from the same political party.

Currently, the situation is complicated by the fact that 3 of the 11 seats on the Board of Governors are vacant. The composition of the board consists of 5 Republicans and 2 Democrats, which suggests that Biden indeed has the possibility of appointing new members to the Board subject to Senate confirmation.

Despite these opportunities, some argue that the fundamental changes needed to rescue the USPS are more about adapting to the digital age and less about political changes. The role of the internet has significantly impacted the services the USPS provides, leading to a decline in traditional mail usage.

The Impact of the Internet and Digital Services

One of the main criticisms of the current state of the USPS is the shift in consumer behavior driven by the internet. Many services that once relied on physical mail, such as bill payments, checking investments, and bank account statements, have increasingly moved online. This shift has resulted in a decline in revenue for the USPS. According to the statement: "Every letter not sent because it was eMailed or downloaded creates lost revenue for the Post Office." The decline is not only driven by individual consumer choices but also by enterprises and organizations that are shifting to digital channels.

The ongoing closures of post offices and the reduction of mail delivery services are indications of a deep structural issue. While some may attribute this to the deplorable state of leadership under Trump, the root cause lies in the changing nature of communication and commerce.

Furthermore, the decline of newspapers and magazines due to online alternatives also contributes to the shrinking demand for physical mail services. This multifaceted challenge necessitates a comprehensive approach that addresses not just leadership but also the fundamental business model of the USPS.

Conclusion and Future Probability

Given the complexity of the issue, it's crucial for President Biden to understand that real reform can't be achieved solely by changing leadership. Instead, it requires a broad strategy that includes modernizing the USPS's services to fit the digital age, enhancing efficiency, and potentially restructuring its business model. While Biden has the opportunity to appoint new members to the Board of Governors, the ultimate challenge is to navigate the changing landscape of communication and commerce effectively.

Will the USPS be rescued under Biden's administration? The answer is not a simple one. It will require a multifaceted approach, addressing both political and economic factors, and a willingness to embrace change. The challenge is significant, but with the right policies and strategies, it is possible to turn around the USPS and ensure its relevance for the future.