Senator Hawley Expands Investigation into USPS Over Oversight Concerns

Senator Josh Hawley, a Republican from Missouri, is expanding his investigation into the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), alleging that Postmaster General David Steiner has not complied with congressional oversight requests. In a letter dated July 16, 2026, Hawley stated that his office has not received any documents in response to a June 30 request regarding USPS's use of outside restructuring consultants amid projected financial losses. The senator is particularly interested in the consulting firm Alvarez & Marsal, which has been hired by USPS to assist in financial planning. Hawley questioned the decision to hire outside consultants while the agency is facing significant financial challenges, including an estimated $25 billion loss over the past three fiscal years and a projected loss of at least $8.1 billion for fiscal year 2026. He has requested detailed records about the hiring of Alvarez & Marsal and their recommendations, emphasizing the need for transparency regarding USPS's financial strategies and service standards. Hawley has set a deadline for USPS to respond to his inquiries by July 24, 2026. USPS did not provide an immediate comment on the matter.