Federal transparency has improved on paper—but GAO says key gaps still undermine accountability and program integrity
Federal transparency has improved on paper—but GAO says key gaps still undermine accountability and program integrity  
Podcast: The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton
Published On: Wed Apr 08 2026
Description: Congress and federal agencies have taken steps to improve transparency around spending and programs, but GAO says persistent gaps continue to limit oversight, efficiency and program integrity. From incomplete spending data to FOIA backlogs and missing program inventories, these weaknesses carry real operational consequences. To explain where transparency efforts are falling short and what would make the biggest difference, we’re joined by Jeff Arkin, Director of Strategic Issues at the Government Accountability Office.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.