Oversight
GOP set to unveil 'governing agenda'
The document, which will be released on Thursday, covers five categories -- jobs, spending, healthcare, national security and government reform.
Defense
Forecast calls for politics and a side of bluster on Defense bill
Senate braces for votes this week on controversial issues with limited ties to defense authorization bill, but which could energize voters in the midterm elections.
Defense
Navy moves to protect jobs at Louisiana shipyard
Service wants to accelerate procurement schedule at endangered Avondale facility that employs thousands of workers.
Defense
Pentagon watchdog defends office’s work
Some of the recommendations in a highly critical Senate report are off-base, Defense IG says.
Oversight
Harvard professor picked to build consumer bureau
Elizabeth Warren will serve as an assistant to the president and special adviser to Treasury secretary.
Oversight
Former DEA chiefs urge attorney general to just say no
Bipartisan group of former officials ask Justice Department to publicly oppose Calif. ballot initiative legalizing pot.
Defense
For soldiers, coming home can be as hard as leaving
The strain on military families does not end when the troops return from Iraq or Afghanistan.
Oversight
Lawmaker promotes crackdown on tax delinquent feds
Bill targets workers who willfully avoid payments, but employee groups say it could end up punishing people trying to do the right thing.
Defense
Senate appropriators OK clean Defense, leg branch bills
Measures clear the panel along party lines, with Republicans withholding support amid concerns about discretionary spending levels.
Oversight
Republicans threaten to block support on appropriations bills
The GOP has sought to make spending and the deficit an election issue.
Defense
More consistency than changes seen for Defense panels
House and Senate Armed Services committees are unlikely to experience upheaval in leadership approach regardless of the November election results.
Oversight
House passes bill to debar crooked contractors
Legislation would ban Foreign Corrupt Practices Act violators from doing business with the government.
Defense
Devil is in the details regarding Defense spending guidance
Industry and Congress support the Pentagon’s efficiency initiative goals, but await more information on implementation.
Oversight
From Nextgov: How a lawn mowing contract is changing Defense acquisition
One way the Pentagon will meet Secretary Gates' goal to cut $100 billion in spending will be to replicate the Naval Sea Systems Command’s standard solicitations for services, which increase competition and save money.
Oversight
Hiring reform deadline creates some headaches for agencies
Despite reports of progress, plans include plenty of challenges to tackle before Nov. 1.
Oversight
Senator: Consumer agency needs permanent director
Democrat dismisses significance of White House plan to appoint Elizabeth Warren as an unconfirmed special adviser to new consumer financial protection bureau.
Oversight
OMB nominee vows exhaustive review of agencies
In afternoon confirmation hearing, Jack Lew says review will be one of his first actions if confirmed as budget chief.
Oversight
Committees could see fundamental shakeup after election
Makeup of the Budget and Appropriations panels likely will be significantly different after Nov. 2.
Defense
Pentagon official seeks support for contracting initiatives
Possible consequences of not acting include broken or canceled programs and market uncertainty, acquisition executive says.
Defense