The Daily Can the Postal Service Survive the Pandemic?
May 27, 2020
Derek Harpe, a dedicated Postal Service worker from rural North Carolina, shares his firsthand experiences navigating the challenges of delivering mail during the pandemic. Nicholas Fandos, a New York Times reporter, delves into the complex political landscape impacting the Postal Service’s financial struggles. They discuss how COVID-19 has exacerbated existing issues, the agency's historical significance, and the ongoing fight for congressional support amidst declining mail volume. The conversation paints a vivid picture of the Postal Service's vital role in communities.
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Childhood Postal Memory
- Derek Harp's first memory of the Postal Service involves Vernon, his childhood mail carrier.
- Vernon gave him treats and represented the Postal Service's friendly face in his rural community.
Last Mile Delivery
- The Postal Service delivers "the last mile" for competitors like Amazon and Walmart.
- They are constitutionally obligated to deliver to every house daily, unlike private companies.
Church Conversation
- A man at church asked Harp about a package he tracked that suddenly appeared at the post office.
- Harp explained the Postal Service's last mile delivery role, highlighting a common misconception.