Defense
Surveillance powers unlikely to change with new president
There’s little reason to believe McCain or Obama would roll back the intelligence gathering authorities now in place.
Oversight
From Nextgov.com: GSA oversight of contractor flawed
Inspector general says procurement agency failed to make sure the government received the best deal when it hired consultant to evaluate bids for a massive IT contract.
Defense
Senator urges suspension of Iraq publicity contracts
The United States should not be spending $300 million to “propagandize the Iraqi people,” especially given the financial crisis, Virginia Democrat says.
Oversight
OPM meets most 2008 strategic goals
Agency still struggles with the rollout of its electronic retirement system.
Oversight
Set-asides still offer billions in contracting prospects
Awards to small firms continue to rise, though the pace is slowing, industry research group finds.
Defense
Top officer says military should wean itself off supplementals
Defense should identify long-term needs that have been included in emergency spending bills and move them to the regular budget, Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman says.
Pay & Benefits
A Fresh Start
SEC’s collaborative approach to rebuilding its failed pay-for-performance system might offer lessons for other agencies.
Tech
Homeland Security communications network project at risk of delays
The department should have developed stronger controls before hiring a contractor to work on the project, report says.
Defense
From Nextgov.com: Air Force to place cyber operations under Space Command
The service’s neglect of its nuclear mission led to the demise of a grand plan for a Cyber Command.
Oversight
SEC chairman blames lack of transparency for market turmoil
Chris Cox calls for better reporting on financial disclosures.
Oversight
Budget observers predict crunch on spending
Former OMB director says next president should devise a five-year budget strategy to handle financial crisis in the short-term and provide long-term deficit restraint.
Oversight
EPA likely to see changes under next administration
Reversing Bush administration rules that reshaped regulatory programs and weakened some environmental protections could take years.
Oversight
State Department urged to boost hiring
New report cautions against an increasing “militarization” of diplomacy.
Defense
From Nextgov.com: Air Force pursues Cyber Command again
Decision comes despite a Pentagon directive to give cyber responsibilities to STRATCOM.
Defense
Feds, industry announce center for identity management research
Agencies, academia and corporations form coalition to find ways to better protect personal data and privacy, but offer few details.
Oversight
Treasury details procurement plan for new financial office
Agency will follow federal acquisition rules, but anticipates that a number of contracts will be awarded without full and open competition.
News
Army reviewing alternatives to troubled helicopter project
Cost of Bell aircraft has risen more than 25 percent.
Pay & Benefits