Defense
Forward Observer: Don't Americanize Afghanistan
Defense Secretary Robert Gates says the United States can avoid the mistakes of the Soviets by adding at most 30,000 troops and putting an “Afghan face” on the war.
Defense
From Nextgov.com: DHS set to begin tech component of troubled border network
SBI Director Mark Borkowski says the program's on track but faces funding hurdles and Secretary Janet Napolitano's history of skepticism.
Oversight
Supplier of tainted peanut butter suspended from federal contracts
Peanut Corporation of America is the focus of an investigation into a nationwide Salmonella outbreak that has left eight people dead.
Oversight
CIA pick faces lingering skepticism from GOP senator
Ranking member of Intelligence Committee continues to probe Leon Panetta's views on rendition.
Defense
Panetta faces questions on terror, torture
President Obama's pick to head the CIA tells senators he thinks waterboarding is torture.
Pay & Benefits
OPM urged to notify CSRS participants about survivor annuity rule
Provision in pension program prevents widows and widowers of some former federal employees from receiving benefits.
Defense
Defense nominees moved to Senate floor by panel
Armed Services Committee approves four nominees, including former Raytheon executive.
Oversight
Obama shifts Census oversight, triggering angry protest by Republicans
The agency will remain in the Commerce Department, but report directly to the White House.
Oversight
Obama gets off to a slow start on one transparency pledge
Two bills have slipped through the cracks while the White House hammers out procedures for giving the public at least five days to review non-emergency legislation before the president signs it.
Pay & Benefits
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
The dangers of missing out on the Medicare Part B enrollment period after you retire.
Oversight