Defense
Defense awards more Iraq reconstruction work to contractors cited for poor performance
Several companies received contracts even after suspension or debarment, report says.
News
From Nextgov.com: Campaign advisers say CIO job should be a career position
Representatives of Barack Obama and John McCain also pledge to use technology to make government more transparent.
Oversight
NTSB calls out aviation agency on medical helicopter safety
Vote came during a meeting to update a list of "most wanted" transportation safety improvements.
Pay & Benefits
OPM helps Treasury with hiring flexibilities
Bailout program will require talent from inside and outside government.
News
U.S. intelligence agencies spend $47.5 billion in 2008
Amount is $4 billion more than spending for the previous fiscal year.
Defense
VA nurses are in short supply
GAO recommends adopting a new staffing system and expanding access to alternative work schedules for inpatient nurses.
Oversight
Swinging for the Fences
By every metric, Democrat Barack Obama’s presidential campaign looks as if it is headed for the upper deck.
Oversight
Candidates offer vastly different governing styles
Obama is steady and measured in his decisions, while McCain follows his gut instincts and thrives on taking risks.
Defense
Democrat's call for defense cuts draws Republican attacks
House Financial Services Committee Chairman suggests 25 percent reduction in military spending.
Defense
Homeland Security launches program to find illegal immigrants in jails
Program will begin in county prisons and then expand to city jails.
Defense
Air Force releases nuclear roadmap
Report pledges to restore credibility to the service after security lapses, increase compliance and develop technical skills of personnel.
Oversight
Next special counsel faces an uphill battle
Successor to Scott Bloch will need to restore trust, both within OSC and across the federal workforce.
Oversight
McCain is not afraid to take chances
The former Navy pilot thrives on calculated risks, sizes up situations quickly and seems to like pushing the envelope.
Oversight
Obama has a calm, disciplined approach to challenges
Smart but untested, disciplined by low-key, sure of himself but a careful listener, the Illinois Democrat would bring a measure of calm to the Oval Office.
Pay & Benefits
Treasury is mum on new hires to manage bailout
Department has authority to fast track federal hiring process.
Tech
From Nextgov.com: OMB backtracks on granting CIOs more authority
A final version of a memo gives agency heads, not chief information officers, primary responsibility for IT management.
Tech