David Steiner Likely to Be Next U.S. Postmaster General Amid Controversy

Washington, D.C. — The United States Postal Service (USPS) board of governors is poised to appoint David Steiner as the next postmaster general following approval from President Donald Trump. Steiner, currently serving as a board member for FedEx and the former CEO of Waste Management, faces criticism over potential conflicts of interest due to his ties to a competitor.

The board of governors is scheduled to meet on May 9, although an official vote regarding the postmaster general’s position is not listed on the agenda. The Washington Post reported on May 6 that Trump supported Steiner’s selection, raising alarms about the potential for increased privatization of the postal service.

Brian Renfroe, president of the National Association of Letter Carriers, condemned Steiner’s possible appointment, calling it a “direct assault” on the labor force that keeps deliveries running. Renfroe argued that the decision aligns with a trend towards prioritizing corporate interests over public service, stating, “Private shippers have been waiting to get USPS out of parcel delivery for years.”

Steiner’s critics point out his history of union-busting practices during his tenure at Waste Management, where he reduced the union’s influence and increased automation. “This decision flies in the face of everything that’s working,” Renfroe said, highlighting that the USPS recently posted a $144 million profit in the last quarter of 2024.

Fears surrounding Steiner’s leadership stem from the broader context of Trump’s administration, which has expressed intentions to reshape the USPS into a more privatized operation. Critics, including Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Va.), argue that this could undermine service, especially in rural areas where the Postal Service is crucial for community connectivity.

If approved, Steiner would succeed Louis DeJoy, who resigned on March 24, amid similar criticisms of his management style and directives that prioritized efficiency over service stability.

The appointment of a postmaster general by the President raises questions about the agency’s independence, as the board is typically responsible for this choice. As the board looks to finalize their decision, concerns about transparency and the future of postal services remain at the forefront.