Call for Postmaster General’s Resignation Over Mail-In Voting Controversy

The Trump administration wants to alter mail-in voting rules just before midterm elections. This move comes even though federal courts have not yet decided if the president has the power to do so. Two courts have ruled key parts of President Trump’s order cannot be implemented during ongoing litigation. Now, the administration seeks the Supreme Court’s intervention to override these rulings.

If successful, the change will affect how millions vote by mail before Election Day. Leading the agency responsible for delivering ballots is Postmaster General David Steiner. However, he has avoided accountability regarding his participation in this controversial issue, leading to calls for his removal.

Steiner has allowed the Postal Service to become involved in a contested effort by the executive branch to alter mail-in voting rules. Instead of maintaining the agency’s independence, he has refused to clarify its compliance with federal court orders or assure the public of unbiased ballot delivery. He also avoids answering Congress’s oversight questions.

The Postal Service’s independence ensures no president can use it for political gain, regardless of party.

Americans need to trust that their ballots will be delivered legally and free from political influence. Steiner has not provided this reassurance. Allowing the Postal Service to be drawn into potentially unlawful election administration changes has compromised his position.

An accountable public official wouldn’t behave this way during litigation that could transform voting methods for millions. A postmaster general must comply with federal court orders to maintain public trust. Steiner’s continued evasion from oversight and court compliance questions is unacceptable weeks before an election, warranting his removal.

The Postal Service’s role is to remain impartial in mail delivery, including ballots. Steiner’s recent actions suggest a failure to uphold this independence. His reluctance to engage with Congress and lack of commitment to court orders disqualifies him from office.

All voters deserve assurance their ballots will arrive without political meddling. Steiner has failed to uphold this trust in an institution with 250 years of public confidence. Therefore, he should resign or be removed from office.

Millions rely on mail for voting, including those overseas, seniors, rural residents, and working parents. They should not face uncertainty about voting rules due to a Supreme Court decision based on an incomplete executive order, led by an unaccountable postmaster general. Steiner has had ample opportunity to reassure Congress and the public of his commitment to the Postal Service’s independence and unbiased ballot delivery, but he has not.

If Steiner does not resign, the Board of Governors should act immediately, rather than await any change from him.

Raja Krishnamoorthi represents the 8th District of Illinois and serves on the Committee on Oversight And Government Reform.