Postmaster General Luis DeJoy assures that the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is fully prepared to manage the anticipated increase in election mail, including mail-in ballots, leading up to Nov. 5.
“We’re confident in our readiness for the election. I have great faith in our preparations, and the American people should too,” DeJoy stated in an interview with The Associated Press on Aug. 29, preceding a media briefing on the USPS’s election readiness.
This marks a significant improvement from 2020, when DeJoy faced challenges in adapting to a new election environment shaped by a surge in absentee voting due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite facing criticism for his political affiliations with then-President Donald Trump and implementing cost-saving measures amid backlogs and financial concerns, DeJoy’s efforts led to USPS delivering 97.9 percent of mail-in ballots within three days in 2020, which further increased to 98.9 percent during the 2022 midterms.
DeJoy aims to continue this positive trend this year while emphasizing the importance of effective communication.
For the upcoming election, USPS has devised various strategies to ensure the prompt delivery of ballots, such as additional pickups and deliveries and utilizing specialized sorting plans on processing machines.
USPS has been actively engaging with election officials nationwide, as well as with Congress, federal agencies, and other stakeholders, to update them on the ongoing preparations.
Furthermore, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the service’s security division, plans to enforce stringent security measures and constant monitoring to safeguard ballots and election personnel.
“We recognize our crucial role in the democratic process and remain steadfast in our commitment to securing the delivery of Election Mail,” stated Brendan Donahue, USPIS assistant inspector in charge. “We are dedicated to ensuring the safe transit of Election Mail and protecting election officials from any potential threats.”
To ensure timely delivery, USPS advises nonmilitary voters to mail their absentee ballots at least one week before their respective states’ deadlines. As mailing requirements vary by state, voters are encouraged to visit their states’ election websites for specific guidelines.
This report includes contributions from The Associated Press.
