Defense

From Nextgov: Pentagon official worries about implications of British hacking scandal

As the military expands the use of smartphones on the battlefield, the services pay a premium to secure them.

Oversight

Leaders looking to short-term solution to avert August default

White House suggests Obama might consider a short-term compromise; House GOP aide calls the idea a possibility until a larger deal is worked out.

News

Former comptroller adds another budget plan to debt crisis mix

David Walker presents two frameworks to deeply cut federal programs and agency budgets in installments or during crisis.

News

Federal unions decry agencies’ failure to develop labor partnerships

OPM agrees to name delinquent agencies and invite them to explain their delay in fulfilling requirements of a 2009 executive order.

Oversight

Congress threatens furloughs for FAA employees

Debate over funding extension could shut down agency unless lawmakers resolve controversial provisions.

Oversight

Reid says he's waiting on Boehner, Republicans, for word on debt plans

Senate leader says chamber is ready to move.

Defense

Watchdog says U.S. aid money in Afghanistan may be fueling insurgency

SIGAR audit paints a dispiriting picture of a massive U.S. aid effort that's effectiveness has been seriously impaired.

Management

Unplugging Data Centers

The shift to shared facilities is easier said than done, state and industry officials say.

News

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News

Most Americans back debt ceiling compromise

Almost 70 percent of independents want Republican leaders to compromise, but 53 percent of Republicans want their lawmakers to stick to their positions.

Oversight

House passes balanced budget bill

Senate is not expected to approve legislation requiring a constitutional amendment to raise debt ceiling.

News

From Nextgov: Feds' strength may be in providing data, not building apps

Technology chiefs say agencies often can use their limited resources best by channeling accurate and timely information to entrepreneurs.

Defense

Pentagon acquisition chief seeks to reassure industry on budget cuts

With leaner times ahead for major weapons systems, profits still viable, Ashton Carter says.

Pay & Benefits

CRS report revisits public-private pay debate

Government workers typically are older, more educated than private sector employees -- important factors in determining salaries.

Pay & Benefits

Lawmaker pushes extension of pay freeze, workforce cuts

Republican Sen. Tom Coburn’s deficit reduction plan would limit salaries, bonuses and leave benefits, and eliminate 300,000 jobs.

Oversight

Boehner says it's time to contemplate 'Plan B'

The House speaker would not say what options he considers to be available or viable as 'Plan Bs.'

Oversight

Obama hails renewed Gang of Six effort

President praises group of senators for coming up with a plan that is "balanced" and includes tax revenues.

News

Americans warming to raising debt ceiling, polls find

Majority of Americans now believes economic crisis will result if debt deal isn't reached by the August 2, poll shows.

Oversight

Blame Republicans for Debt Crisis

By flinching at the prospect of significant deficit reduction, the GOP will have to deal with the fallout.