WASHINGTON – Today, Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.) released the following statement in response to Postmaster General John E. Potter’s announcement that he will retire on Dec. 3, 2010:

“I was saddened to learn today of John E. Potter’s decision to retire as U.S. Postmaster General and CEO of the U.S. Postal Service after 32 years of service at the U.S. Postal Service.  Jack has served admirably in this position for nearly 10 years, enacting key reforms to modernize the Postal Service and put it on a more sustainable financial path.  His tenure as Postmaster General has been marked by a number of important accomplishments, including streamlining postal operations, eliminating billions of dollars in expenses, and utilizing technology to increase efficiency and productivity.  Jack has managed to lead the Postal Service with distinction during some of the most challenging times in its long history, including the anthrax terrorist attack following 9/11 and the Great Recession of the past two years.  I have been honored to work closely with Jack as we have sought to build a brighter, more promising future for the Postal Service.  I wish Jack and his family all the best as he concludes this chapter of service and begins the next chapter in his life.

“I also want to offer my sincere congratulations to Deputy Postmaster General Patrick R. Donahoe on being named Jack’s successor.  I look forward to working with him as we continue our efforts to build a stronger Postal Service for the 21st Century.”