Route Fifty

Can a National Park Save Northern Maine?

Debate over the North Woods Park proposal has raised federalism issues.

Management

How Obama Welcomed Pope Francis

The pontiff was greeted by thousands of people outside the executive mansion on Wednesday.

Oversight

Senator Wants 'Clarity' From FBI on Hillary Clinton’s Recovered Emails

Judiciary Committee chairman said new revelations bolster the case for an “independent authority” to search records.

Oversight

Play of the Day: All Pope, All the Time

Pope Francis is in the United States and late-night TV is all over this historic event.

Management

Can Public Policy Survive Without Government?

Public-private partnerships can improve services, but not without risks.

Nextgov

Tax Collectors Want 'Selfies' to Prove You Are Who You Say You Are

States receive federal funds to verify the smartphone self-portraits of citizens, as a means of preventing refund fraud.

Oversight

Abortion Has Held Up the Budget Before, But the Stakes Are Higher This Time

Debate over reproductive rights caused funding gaps in the 1970s, but not a shutdown.

Nextgov

Agencies Harnessing Data to Make Your Visit to a Government Office More Bearable

Feedback USA is a system of kiosks that allow citizens to rate their experience visiting field offices and other agency locations.

Oversight

Issa Cites Tensions with Executive Branch on Bipartisan DATA Act

Ex-House chairman dismisses IRS’ budget complaints, predicts “scores of FOIA officers” no longer needed.

Oversight

Issa Says He’s Never Voted to Shut Down the Government

Senate leaders are to blame, he says, as parks advocates warn of damage.

Pay & Benefits

A Primer on Federal Pay and Benefits In Case the Government Shuts Down Again

Keep in mind that Congress has always approved back pay for federal workers furloughed during shutdowns.

Nextgov

Only 1 in 7 of the Pentagon’s Emails is Legit

Out of 700 million emails sent to Pentagon account monthly, about 98 million are actually "good emails,” an official says.

Oversight

Pope Francis Won't Tread Lightly on the Issues that Divide Washington

The pope puts immigration, refugees, and climate change on the top of his agenda.

Route Fifty

Washington Still Funding Charter Schools for Now; Sun Pharma Wants No Part of Arkansas Executions

Also: Jersey City transgender employees win expanded benefits and damning data on racial profiling piles up in Connecticut.