Oversight

Going Obama's Way

If the economy remains the focus over the next month, the election may get out of McCain's reach.

Oversight

Federal jobs not automatically competitive, administration argues

In court filing, Justice Department says president has authority to determine which jobs are subject to competition.

Oversight

Wall Street executive turned politician dissects the economic breakdown

New Jersey's governor, a former senator and CEO of Goldman Sachs, discusses the financial crisis and Henry Paulson's performance as Treasury secretary.

Oversight

Former procurement chief indicted again

Prosecutors level two new charges against David Safavian and revive three from his previous trial.

Oversight

Orszag: Economic mess will change incoming president's agenda

It will be difficult to deal with much beyond the economy in the early stages of the next presidency, budget office chief says.

Oversight

From Nextgov.com: GSA oversight of contractor flawed

Inspector general says procurement agency failed to make sure the government received the best deal when it hired consultant to evaluate bids for a massive IT contract.

Defense

Senator urges suspension of Iraq publicity contracts

The United States should not be spending $300 million to “propagandize the Iraqi people,” especially given the financial crisis, Virginia Democrat says.

Oversight

OPM meets most 2008 strategic goals

Agency still struggles with the rollout of its electronic retirement system.

Oversight

Set-asides still offer billions in contracting prospects

Awards to small firms continue to rise, though the pace is slowing, industry research group finds.

Defense

Top officer says military should wean itself off supplementals

Defense should identify long-term needs that have been included in emergency spending bills and move them to the regular budget, Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman says.

Defense

From Nextgov.com: Air Force to place cyber operations under Space Command

The service’s neglect of its nuclear mission led to the demise of a grand plan for a Cyber Command.

Oversight

SEC chairman blames lack of transparency for market turmoil

Chris Cox calls for better reporting on financial disclosures.

Oversight

Budget observers predict crunch on spending

Former OMB director says next president should devise a five-year budget strategy to handle financial crisis in the short-term and provide long-term deficit restraint.

Oversight

EPA likely to see changes under next administration

Reversing Bush administration rules that reshaped regulatory programs and weakened some environmental protections could take years.

Oversight

State Department urged to boost hiring

New report cautions against an increasing “militarization” of diplomacy.

Defense

Feds, industry announce center for identity management research

Agencies, academia and corporations form coalition to find ways to better protect personal data and privacy, but offer few details.

Oversight

Treasury details procurement plan for new financial office

Agency will follow federal acquisition rules, but anticipates that a number of contracts will be awarded without full and open competition.

Oversight

Tie Breaker

The House would pick the next president if the Electoral College vote ended in a tie.

Oversight

Think tank publishes transition guides for government leaders

Books offer advice on establishing relationships, setting clear agendas, communicating with employees and learning government jargon.

Oversight

SBA to stop certifying small disadvantaged businesses

Agency will no longer verify status; companies can self-certify or get help from a third-party.