APWU Must Fight for Our Future In Wake of Tough Congressional Elections

Elections have consequences. The Republican Party gained control of the House of Representatives in Tuesday’s election, and it didn’t take long for Rep. Darryl Issa (R-CA), who is expected to become chairman of the House committee with jurisdiction over the Postal Service, to elaborate on his plans.

Following his victory, in an interview with Congressional Quarterly, Issa vowed “to clamp down on government agencies he sees as wasting taxpayers’ money.” He outlined an agenda that includes cutting postal facilities and creating a commission to decide which facilities should be shut down.

“There are too many distribution centers, too many postal workers, too many post offices, and there’s a reluctance to make those changes,” Rep. Issa told CQ magazine.

“We face tough challenges, but the union will do everything possible to protect the interests of postal workers,” said Myke Reid, APWU Legislative and Political director. “Last night’s election makes that task very difficult, so it is imperative that we work together.”