Defense

Joint Chiefs nominee warns against deeper defense cuts

At confirmation hearing, Gen. Martin Dempsey says cutting more than $400 billion over the next 12 years would carry heavy risks for the military.

Oversight

Too Close to Call

Political and economic signs point to a 2012 presidential election that will come down to the wire.

News

A Model Public Servant

Oversight

Dueling president, House speaker take pleas prime time

Despite warnings of dire consequences for failing to raise the debt ceiling, neither side appears willing to budge with one week to go before the Aug. 2 deadline.

Defense

From Nextgov: VA will allow iPhones and iPads to connect to its network this fall

The department will not require the use of federal wireless encryption standards.

Oversight

OMB elaborates on regulatory review for independent agencies

OIRA chief Sunstein offers template for assessment of potentially burdensome rules under Obama executive order.

Pay & Benefits

GSA announces employees will pay for parking

Environmental concerns motivated the change, agency memo says.

Pay & Benefits

Engineers, safety inspectors among thousands furloughed at FAA

Until Congress agrees on funding bill, the agency cannot collect federal taxes on airline tickets, which feed the account used to pay employees.

News

CBO: Policymakers should consider trimming benefits to feds, vets

Director Douglas Elmendorf outlines deficit reduction ideas, which include less generous benefits for federal employees.

Defense

Sworn in, Crocker assures careful drawdown in Afghanistan

New ambassador says there is “no rush for the exits.”

Oversight

House and Senate remain on collision course over debt ceiling

Boehner and Reid release competing plans; debate is likely to come to a head just days before Aug. 2 deadline.

Oversight

Reid, Boehner unveiling dueling debt plans

The proposals will leave the House and Senate at odds.

Defense

Report: Military investigation finds U.S. funds reached Taliban

Probe reveals portions of $2 billion contract intended to support local Afghan business eventually reached insurgents.

Tech

Critical Competencies

New model identifies the general and technical skills program managers need at each grade level.

Defense

Former chairman of Joint Chiefs Shalikashvili dies

The four-star Army general who served as chairman of the Joint Chiefs under Bill Clinton, died Saturday of complications from a stroke.

News

Against Obama, Boehner backing 6-month plan

The House and Senate could potentially vote on dueling plans, even as deliberations behind a joint solution persist.

News

No debt deal in sight after White House meeting

Both parties have said they will be working throughout the weekend in attempts to reach consensus.

News

Post-9/11 Report Card

News

Boehner ends talks with White House on debt deal

Speaker says grand bargain "was never really close"; President Obama rips Republicans for rejecting "extraordinarily fair deal."