Defense
Republicans challenge GAO assessment of Iraq progress
Criticism sets the stage for what the GOP hopes will be a more favorable report from Gen. David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker.
Oversight
Senators urge stronger federal oversight of coal mines
Mine safety chief defends his agency’s record, saying it is too soon to assign blame for Utah collapse.
Pay & Benefits
Air traffic controllers land in Washington to lobby
Controllers ask lawmakers to overturn unpopular contract in upcoming FAA reauthorization.
Defense
Chertoff sidesteps queries about attorney general job
Homeland Security secretary says it would be “presumptuous” to speak for President Bush or discuss conversations with the White House.
Oversight
Open Senate race could reshape contracting oversight in House
If Rep. Tom Davis, R-Va., were to vacate his seat, contractors would lose one of their strongest advocates in the chamber.
Defense
Watchdog finds gaps in DHS visitor tracking program
Officials at risk of repeating past failures unless they develop a more detailed plan for new, biometric-based system to record exits by air.
Pay & Benefits
Common stocks lead August TSP earnings
With the exception of international investments, all of the retirement savings plan’s basic funds posted increases for the month.
Defense
Chertoff sees too many congressional hearings, demands
Homeland Security secretary says dealing with oversight creates "unnecessary burden" for department.
Oversight
Nussle confirmed as OMB director
Surprising number of Senate Democrats cross aisle to support former House Budget Committee chair.
Management
Secret of Success
A risk-based approach could unclog security clearance backlogs once and for all.
Tech
Lawmakers back energy-friendly light bulbs at federal facilities
Amendment to House version of appropriations bill would prohibit the purchase of inefficient bulbs.
Oversight
Senate turns to popular military construction bill
Chamber also confirms former House Budget Chairman Jim Nussle, R-Iowa, as director of the Office of Management and Budget.
Defense
NASA researchers balk at background checks
Scientists argue that agencies are violating civil liberties in enforcing a presidential directive that requires background checks of federal workers and contractors.
Defense
Pentagon eyes synthetic fuels
House panel to consider investment in technology to convert coal to liquid fuels, which could reduce costs and vulnerabilities of relying on foreign petroleum.
Defense
Head of Army contracting review seeks to avoid pointing fingers
Jacques Gansler says group will look at existing procedures, but focus will be on the future.
Defense
Independent study finds Iraq has failed to meet most goals
Watchdog agency concludes Iraqi government has fully achieved only one of its eight legislative benchmarks and two of nine security benchmarks.
Pay & Benefits