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• The Trump administration has proposed that U.S. Postal Service (USPS) workers conduct the national census, potentially saving billions of dollars.
• This idea is part of broader plans to reform the USPS, including a possible merger with the Department of Commerce.
• Critics argue that such changes could compromise the independence and effectiveness of the USPS.

Quick Brief

2-Minute Digest

Essential Context

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has suggested that USPS workers take on the responsibility of conducting the national census. This proposal aims to reduce the $40 billion spent every 10 years on hiring temporary workers and associated costs like rental cars, gas, and food.

Core Players

• Donald Trump – President Trump and current Republican frontrunner
• Howard Lutnick – Commerce Secretary
• U.S. Postal Service (USPS) – Federal agency responsible for mail delivery
• U.S. Census Bureau – Agency currently responsible for conducting the census

Key Numbers

• $40 billion – Cost of conducting the census every 10 years
• 625,000 – Number of temporary workers hired for the census
• 635,000 – Number of USPS employees
• $9.5 billion – USPS loss in fiscal year 2024
• $144 million – USPS net income in Q1 2025

Full Depth

Complete Coverage

The Catalyst

The Trump administration’s proposal to have USPS workers conduct the census is part of a broader strategy to streamline government operations and reduce costs. Secretary Lutnick highlighted the existing infrastructure of the USPS, including its workforce and vehicles, as a resource that could be leveraged to save taxpayers money.

“What department do we already have that already employs 625,000 people? It’s got cars, already has gas, and goes to every household,” Lutnick said.

Inside Forces

The USPS has been facing significant financial challenges, including a $9.5 billion loss in fiscal year 2024. However, it posted a net income of $144 million in Q1 2025. The administration’s plans also include a possible merger of the USPS with the Department of Commerce, which could give the White House more control over the agency’s operations.

This merger idea is seen as a step towards potential privatization, a move that has drawn resistance from lawmakers and union groups.

Power Dynamics

The proposal has significant implications for the power dynamics within the federal government. If implemented, it would increase the White House’s influence over the USPS. Critics argue that this could undermine the agency’s independence and effectiveness.

Lawmakers and union groups, such as the National Association of Letter Carriers, have voiced strong opposition to any plans that would lead to the privatization of the USPS.

Outside Impact

The broader implications of these changes extend to rural communities and small businesses that rely on the affordable mail services provided by the USPS. Full privatization could lead to higher costs and reduced services, particularly in areas that private carriers often ignore.

Stakeholders, including parcel carriers and consumer advocacy groups, are expressing concerns about the potential impact on service quality and access.

Future Forces

Looking ahead, the outcome of these proposals will depend on legislative and public support. The administration will need to navigate significant resistance from Congress and various interest groups to implement these changes.

Potential reforms could include restructuring the USPS to privatize its parcel delivery services while keeping its mail delivery operations public, as suggested by some industry experts.

Data Points

• January 2025: Trump administration begins exploring reforms for the USPS.
• February 27, 2025: Secretary Lutnick proposes USPS workers conducting the census.
• Fiscal Year 2024: USPS loses $9.5 billion.
• Q1 2025: USPS reports $144 million net income.
• 2030: Next scheduled national census.