In a move that is already sparking intense debate across political and labor circles, the U.S. Postal Service’s Board of Governors has appointed David Steiner—the former CEO of Waste Management and a current FedEx board member—as the 76th Postmaster General and CEO of the USPS.
While the official announcement paints Steiner as a seasoned executive poised to steer the USPS through its next phase of transformation, critics warn his deep corporate ties and links to a key competitor could signal a dramatic shift in the future of the agency.
From Corporate Boardrooms to Government Service
Steiner’s résumé is impressive by any corporate standard. As CEO of Waste Management, he oversaw a multibillion-dollar operation and championed modernization and sustainability.
His tenure on FedEx’s board further cemented his position in America’s logistics ecosystem. But it’s this latter affiliation that has fueled concerns.
For decades, FedEx has been both a partner and competitor to USPS. While the two entities have worked together on last-mile deliveries, their broader strategic objectives are at odds.
Now, with a FedEx insider stepping into USPS leadership, the question arises: Can Steiner serve the public interest while navigating potential conflicts of interest?
A Crossroads for the Postal Service
The USPS is at a critical juncture. Saddled with years of financial deficits, workforce tensions, and mounting pressure to modernize, the agency faces an identity crisis: should it function as a traditional public service, or evolve into a profit-driven logistics competitor?
Former Postmaster General Louis DeJoy—himself a controversial figure—pushed the agency toward a more business-oriented model.
His cost-cutting initiatives, including service slowdowns and price hikes, were met with mixed reactions.
Steiner is expected to continue, if not accelerate, this trajectory. His private-sector background suggests a focus on efficiency, digitization, and potentially outsourcing—measures that may streamline operations but could come at the cost of job security and service quality.
Union Resistance and Political Pushback
Unions representing over half a million postal workers have responded swiftly and critically.
“Installing someone with close ties to a direct competitor raises serious red flags,” said a spokesperson for the American Postal Workers Union. “We fear this is a step toward privatization by stealth.”
Progressive lawmakers have also voiced unease, calling for greater transparency in Steiner’s selection and demanding ironclad guarantees against conflicts of interest.
Some are even urging congressional hearings to examine the appointment and ensure USPS remains a public institution.
What Steiner Says
In his first statement following the announcement, Steiner attempted to calm nerves. “I’m committed to preserving the unique public service role of the Postal Service,” he said.
“Our goal is to be competitive, yes—but also to be reliable, fair, and a partner to the American people.”
He emphasized his intent to work closely with unions and stakeholders to “reimagine” the USPS without compromising its mandate of universal service.
What’s at Stake
For millions of Americans—particularly in rural areas—the USPS is not just another shipping option; it is a lifeline.
From delivering prescription medications to facilitating voting by mail, the USPS plays a crucial role in civic life.
Steiner’s challenge will be to reconcile the efficiency demands of a business with the accessibility needs of a public service. Whether he can walk that tightrope remains to be seen.
Looking Ahead
Steiner officially steps into his role in July 2025, pending the completion of ethics and security reviews.
As he prepares to take charge, all eyes will be on whether he can balance innovation with integrity, and whether his leadership will steer the USPS toward reinvention—or regression.
Also Read