WASHINGTON (NewsNation) — Postmaster General Louis DeJoy testified on Capitol Hill for a second time on Monday facing questions from lawmakers about delays in postal delivery, and readiness for the November election.
“The Postal Service is fully capable and committed to delivering the nation’s ballots securely and on time,” said DeJoy. “This sacred duty is my number one priority between now and Election day.”
Chairwoman of the House Oversight Committee, Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-NY, refuted DeJoy’s defense that postal changes were planned before Dejoy assumed his role. Maloney pointed to an Inspector General’s report documenting delays in mail delivery, which began in July, under DeJoy’s leadership.
“This document shows that these delays are not a myth, or conspiracy theory like some of my colleagues have argued,” said Maloney. “Our entire country is experiencing these delays as a result of Mr. DeJoy’s actions.”
Congressman Ro Khanna, D-CA, pressed DeJoy to bring back mail sorting machines which have been removed under DeJoy’s watch. Khanna said the gesture would restore confidence to voters.
“Whoever wins, the American people should have confidence in that result,” said Khanna.
Republicans argued that Democrats continue to play politics with the Postal Service. Congressman Jim Jordan, R-OH, accused Democrats of sowing confusion ahead of the November election.
“They know on Election day, the vote count on Election day Trump’s going to win,” said Jordan. “And they want to keep counting. Four weeks, six weeks.”
He also argued many of the postal changes Democrats have taken issue with are routine USPS practice.
“The chain of events show Democrats are not serious about meaningful reform,” said Rep. Jim Comer, R-KY.
Comer said Democrats are pursuing a baseless conspiracy. He also criticized the bill Democrats championed, which gave $25 billion to USPS. The bill also prohibits any changes to the USPS until after the election.
“And the senate will likely not take up the bill. This is a political stunt,” said Comer.
DeJoy emphasized the postal service will be able to handle all election mail.
“While we have had temporary service decline, which should not have happened, we are fixing this,” said DeJoy.
