News
Expansion of FBI database holding DNA profiles debated
Proponents argue a universal database would assist law enforcement agencies.
Defense
Senator wants border security funds added to supplemental spending bill
Proposed $1.1 billion addition would go toward replacement and modernization of equipment, construction of stations and checkpoints, communications upgrades and language training.
Management
Homeland Security gets help strengthening financial controls
PricewaterhouseCoopers wins contract worth up to $42 million to help address systemic accounting problems.
Management
Pentagon likely to appeal ruling blocking labor relations reforms
Deputy Secretary of Defense Gordon England says he anticipated decision overturning parts of the department’s new personnel system.
Defense
Senators demand classified briefing on ports deal
Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff says he will be personally involved in new review of U.S. port operations sale.
Defense
Contractor ethics plan quashed in House-Senate negotiations
Quiet removal of language requiring contractors to name ex-Defense officials working for them indicates challenge ahead for ethics reform.
Defense
Following White House orders, Army cut supplemental request
Decision to trim $3 billion shows the Army is subject to the same fiscal constraints as other Pentagon agencies.
Oversight
Hard Choices
The two front-runners for the 2008 Republican presidential nomination are unpopular with large portions of the party.
News
Bush offers governors improved lines of communication
President stands firm on policies, but pledges to do a better job of consulting with governors on issues including potential National Guard cuts.
News
Report: Effort to rebuild Iraq has been underfunded
The $2.2 billion requested in the 2006 supplemental funding bill and Bush’s 2007 budget would fall short by $5 billion to $10 billion, research center finds.
News
GSA to cut 400 employees in face of declining revenue
Acting acquisition commissioner says he wants to avoid RIFs but can’t guarantee it.
Defense
GAO finds gaps in chemical plant security
Auditors conclude that Congress should give the Homeland Security Department more power to regulate chemical facilities.
News
Contractor’s bribery plea details efforts to influence Pentagon officials
Payments and job offers led to contract awards, according to court documents.
Management
Court rules that IRS inappropriately outsourced mailroom work
Agency and union have 30 days to file proposals for a remedy.
Management
Judge overturns Defense labor relations reforms
Decision echoes August ruling in case involving challenge to Homeland Security system.
News
Forward Observer: A 'Buy Everything' Budget
Congress has not forced Bush and Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld to make tough choices on Pentagon spending priorities.
Defense