Be Ready for Election 2008 — Briefing Article

There is nothing more basic to our nation than a citizen’s right to vote, and the Postal Service’s role in today’s pro­cess is extremely important. Although not authorized to play any role in determining how elections are carried out in the United States, the Postal Service stands ready to do everything it can to make sure voters experience a smooth, well-organized process — one that provides them with the highest levels of trust and confidence when they cast their ballots by mail.

Postmasters and station managers should expect to be contacted by election officials asking for help with their mailings. Election officials may be directed to www.usps.com/electionmail, which has resources tailored to meet their mailing needs. In addition, the local mailpiece design analyst (MDA) and district business mail entry unit (BMEU) personnel are available to help with inquiries con­cerning election mail.

Postal employees needing information on procedures for handling election mail can also go to the Election 2008 inter­nal site at http://blue.usps.gov/marketing/election.htm. This site is designed to be the single source for information about the Postal Service’s role in elections, and to educate postal employees on the importance and proper handling of both OEM and PCM.

It is critical that Postal Service employees be ready to provide reliable service and delivery for this very important and time-sensitive mail. All OEM and PCM must be han­dled promptly and receive equal care and attention. With your help, the Postal Service will be able to capture and grow this valuable mail volume.