Defense
Defense auditors’ focus on riskiest contracts lacks plan, GAO finds
DCAA’s initiative is promising but not fully developed, watchdog says.
Management
OMB: Furloughs are a last resort under sequestration
Administration says agencies won’t furlough employees immediately if spending cuts hit Jan. 2.
Defense
Defense secretary possibility made name opposing global warming accord
Forget about his Israel comments. Chuck Hagel's record on the environment is the real problem.
Oversight
Analysis: Veterans no longer dominate American politics
After Inouye, still fewer military vets in the Senate.
Oversight
GOP Plan B lowers taxes on certain wealthy households
Those earning between $200,000 and $1 million would see reduced burden, experts say.
Oversight
Congress approves Hatch Act update
Some state and local officials will be able to run for partisan elected office.
Oversight
Obama wants recommendations from new gun task force next month
President urges Congress to move quickly on tightening restrictions.
Management
Three at State Department resign following Benghazi report
Security chief and two others step down, AP says, citing unnamed source.
Oversight
Joe Biden will head effort to curb gun violence
Effort is part of the emerging White House strategy, which includes support for assault weapons ban.
Oversight
House Republicans' support for Plan B on fiscal cliff uncertain
Neither alternative measure would address the sequester.
Oversight
Democrats dodge questions on spending cuts
Obama’s plan calls for $1.2 trillion in reductions, including a switch to the chained CPI.
Pay & Benefits
Postal reps stage hunger strike, pledge 'escalating tactics' on lawmakers
Union representatives protest against cuts to Postal Service.
Oversight
Boehner tells House GOP he's moving to Plan B on fiscal cliff
Option would be for the House to pass a plan letting top tax rates increase on income over $1 million only.
Oversight
Analysis: Newtown shooting provides perspective amid fiscal cliff
Congress returns with a more subdued attitude toward partisan bickering.
Oversight
Play of the Day: Acting silly in the wake of sadness
After Newtown, late night tries to cope with tragedy.
Oversight
White House makes new fiscal cliff counteroffer to GOP
Proposal includes $200 billion in savings on discretionary programs.
Oversight
Sen. Inouye of Hawaii dies at 88
He was a longtime presence on the Appropriations Committee.
Oversight
Majority leader expects Senate back Dec. 26
Legislative leaders often use the threat of holiday week sessions to force action.
Oversight