Postmaster General Louis DeJoy appeared before Congress on Thursday to discuss the United States Postal Service’s readiness for handling mail-in ballots ahead of the next presidential election. The hearing was held by the House Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government, where DeJoy fielded questions from representatives concerned about the USPS’s capacity to process millions of ballots.
Concerns about the Postal Service’s ability to manage election-related mail have been growing, particularly after the National Association of State Election Directors and others raised alarms about the potential for delays. With an election drawing closer, lawmakers wanted to ensure that USPS could handle the increased volume.
Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA) asked DeJoy whether the Postal Service has a plan to address issues with ballots if they arise. DeJoy explained that USPS is a massive organization undergoing major transitions but acknowledged that they need to be more proactive. “We have to engage with election officials more directly,” DeJoy said, stressing the importance of staying ahead of potential problems.
Hinson pressed further, stating, “Voters expect their ballots to arrive on time, and they don’t want excuses.” In response, DeJoy assured the committee that USPS is prepared and capable of delivering ballots. Democratic Rep. Matt Cartwright (D-PA) followed up by asking if voters could trust the Postal Service with their mail-in ballots. DeJoy confidently replied, “Absolutely.”
The Postmaster General also highlighted USPS’s longstanding experience with election mail, citing its success in the 2020 election. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, USPS delivered 99.89% of mail-in ballots within seven days. DeJoy emphasized that the Postal Service has been handling election mail since the Civil War, assuring the committee that USPS remains ready.
Still, DeJoy acknowledged some election officials might not fully grasp the Postal Service’s capabilities. He noted that while specific issues are addressed effectively, it can be difficult to tackle broad concerns. As he concluded his testimony, DeJoy reiterated the Postal Service’s readiness, saying, “We are fully prepared to deliver mail-in ballots on time for voters who choose to use the Postal Service.”
This hearing reflected the growing concerns around mail-in voting, with millions of Americans expected to vote by mail. The USPS will play a pivotal role in ensuring the integrity and timeliness of the election.
