David Ditch | The Daily Signal
In 2020, we’re used to seeing falsehoods and misinformation spreading like wildfire online. Typically, they’re linked to breaking news, hot-button social issues, or scandals.
The biggest focal point for online political drama today is an unlikely one; namely, the U.S. Postal Service. Representatives from both parties, conspiracy theorists, and even singer Taylor Swift are weighing in on the unsexy subject of mail.
Make no mistake: The Postal Service faces real challenges that require congressional action to solve. Yet, while genuine differences exist between the left and the right about how best to address the problems, that’s not an excuse for melodramatic rumor-mongering.
With the House convening a special session specifically to address issues involving the Postal Service, it’s important to separate myths from reality.
MYTH No. 1: The Postal Service is removing sorting machines to sabotage delivery.
They’re legit taking the mailboxes off the street. Cheating 101. pic.twitter.com/hkXcV5vtBH
— Isaac Hayes III (@IsaacHayes3) August 14, 2020
REALITY: The volume of mail has plunged in recent decades, due to the spread of electronic communication. As a result, the amount of infrastructure needed to manage the flow of mail also has declined.
The Postal Service has been consolidating operations for years to reduce costs, a practice that predates President Donald Trump.
MYTH No. 2: The Postal Service is removing collection boxes to block mail-in ballots.
