The General Services Administration’s Federal Acquisition Service updated its organizational structure to better reflect how agencies buy and vendors sell. The new setup features five new portfolios called: Assist, Centralize, Create, Deliver and Optimize. Each is bringing together sometimes disparate services and moving FAS out of its previous organizational structure that centered on category management. For more on what drove this reorganization, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller caught up with Laura Stanton, the acting commissioner of GSA’s FAS.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Department of Health and Human Services is shrinking cash awards for its top performers. In its place, the department is shifting a majority of its bonus budget to cover “special act” awards with eligibility criteria that are less well-defined. This is all part of a governmentwide push to limit the number of top scores federal employees get on their annual performance reviews. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The inspector general system has weathered political pressure before, but this moment is testing how durable it really is. Even so, the day-to-day work of audits, investigations, and accountability continues. Former FDIC Inspector General Jay Lerner is here with perspective from inside that system.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry GertonThe federal watchdog system was built to be independent by design, a former inspector general tells us why that design still matters Existing ethics laws weren’t written with prediction markets in mind A week that didn’t end the way Congress plannedSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Political prediction markets allow traders to profit from future events tied to public decision‑making. But as oversight systems come under strain, POGO says that structure creates risks current ethics laws were not designed to address. Janice Luong, a policy analyst at the Project on Government Oversight, walks us through how those markets work and where guardrails fall short.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Both chambers were lining up for votes, then packed up and left town early. From sudden funding fights to shifting priorities, it turned into a week of surprises on Capitol Hill. Joining me to walk through what happenedand what comes next is Loren Duggan, Deputy News Director for Bloomberg Government.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's Memorial Day, and coming up today on "The Best of The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton," A military widow turned profound loss into a decade of service. Now she’s receiving high honorsA PCS move can test a family’s finances, routines and support systems all at once A military family is sharing lessons from their decades‑long journey with autismSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trump administration is looking to overhaul federal employees’ avenues for appealing adverse personnel actions. As that gets underway, former officials from the Merit Systems Protection Board are warning of significant consequences for the civil service. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lawmakers are renewing their efforts to give service members the ability to fix their own equipment after popular right to repair provisions were stripped from the 2026 defense policy bill following strong industry pushback. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Cyber isn’t just about defense anymore. Governments increasingly assume they’ll use offensive cyber tools as part of state power Even as AI gets better at finding digital weak spots, it doesn’t eliminate the human role in cyber conflictSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Security teams have long chased known vulnerabilities, but AI is accelerating how new ones are discovered and exploited in a world where cyber operations are already part of state competition. Here to walk through how that changes the balance between attackers and defenders is associate professor of the practice of cyber studies at the University of Tulsa, Justin Miller.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Offensive cyber operations have moved from the margins of national security into the core of how governments plan for conflict, deterrence and competition. That shift means agencies are building cyber capabilities into standing strategy and industry is increasingly expected to design, operate and protect systems with the assumption that cyber operations are a normal feature of state behavior. Kat Sommer of NCC Group is here to share more of their recent findings and recommendations.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From the overhaul of the Federal Acquisition Regulations to the push for consolidation and centralization, these three requests for proposals demonstrate how agencies are implementing and accepting the Office of Management and Budget’s prioritization of reforming federal technology and acquisition management. In his reporter's notebook, executive editor Jason Miller writes about how the RFPs from Commerce, Treasury and GSA are demonstrating the changes happening. Jason joins me now to discuss.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Department of Health and Human Services carried out widespread layoffs a year ago. Now it’s sending out a second wave of reduction in force notices. HHS says these are more targeted layoffs, targeting employees it missed when their offices and programs were eliminated last year. All of this is happening as HHS embarks on a hiring surge. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Having expertise doesn’t always mean the system knows what to do with it After a tough year for federal senior executives, new leadership at SEA is looking at what comes next A PCS move can test a family’s finances, routines, and support systems all at onceSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Air Force has spent years building China‑related expertise. But researchers find the personnel system doesn’t always reward or retain that specialization. That leaves a gap between what strategy calls for and how careers actually play out. Dr. Miriam Matthews and Cristina Garafola from the Rand Corporation join us with their analysis.TAGSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal senior executives are coming out of a demanding year, with mission changes, retirements and rising expectations across agencies. That pressure is reshaping how SES leaders approach their roles and forcing a reset inside the organization that supports them. Dr. Michelle Sutter, executive director of the Senior Executives Association, joins us to talk about what comes next for SES leaders and how SEA is adjusting.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

PCS moves can put real strain on military families from unexpected costs to the impact on careers and kids. Sarah Roder, Director of Partnerships and Member Engagement at Armed Forces Mutual, joins us to explain where families get caught off guard and what helps smooth the transition.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has launched a sweeping review of the military legal system, directing the Pentagon’s general counsel to convene a special review panel that will conduct what he described as an “ongoing, long-term, departmentwide review of all aspects of the military legal system.” The review faces numerous challenges — and the panel’s structure will determine whether it leads to meaningful reform. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Ira Rushing, an associate at the Tully Rinckey law firm…See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Some adjustments to financial security, retirement payments and insurance options for feds are in the beginning stages of consideration in Congress. Four recent bills that House and Senate lawmakers have introduced over the last few weeks aim to tackle a range of benefits issues across government. Here with details, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The latest use of the Defense Production Act expands federal tools to support domestic energy capacity across the supply chain. It does not compel action, but it opens a path for financing and program support. Whether that translates into projects will turn on agency follow-through. Scott Johnson, of counsel at Foley & Lardner, is here to share with us how that would work.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Getting the rules right early can shape both safety and growth of emerging technologies The administration is leaning on the Defense Production Act to shape supply chains through federal support, not mandates Some of the biggest cyber risks to the military don’t start inside government networksSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

By opening its Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Program to new partners, the Pentagon is trying to reduce vulnerabilities across the supply chain. As those risks extend beyond government systems into the private sector, partnership becomes central. How that model works and what success looks like is at the center of my conversation with Terry Kalka, director of the Defense Industrial Base Collaborative Information Sharing Environment at the Defense Department Cyber Crime Center.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new GAO assessment looks ahead at emerging technologies where early decisions could shape how they’re used and how they’re governed across government. We talk through what those trends are and what Congress and agencies need to be thinking about now with GAO Chief Scientist Dr. Sterling Thomas.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The State Department is directing managers to go back and revise recently submitted annual performance evaluations to give employees lower scores. That’s all part of recent governmentwide guidance limiting the number of top scores that federal employees can receive. Impacted employees say these changes could disrupt the collaborative nature of their diplomatic work. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Navy is ensuring its officers at the highest levels understand how artificial intelligence works as it adopts and integrates it into its warfighting functions. The Naval Postgraduate School is at the center of those efforts, providing both the courses and the technology to drive that learning. For more on what NPS is doing, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller caught up with Randy Pugh, the vice provost for warfare studies, the director of the Office of Warfare Studies and the lead of the AI task force.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Growth across federal contractors averaged about 15% in 2025, according to Deltek’s latest Clarity report, but that growth is showing up alongside new pressure on margins, controls and visibility Federal contractors are doing more than delivering programs, they’re helping the government respond when conditions change quickly Challenging a GAO protest stay override may be getting clearer, but not any easierSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Deltek’s new Clarity report, based on 2025 data, shows a widening divide inside the federal contracting market. The firms growing fastest aren’t just adding revenue, they’re maintaining tighter controls and fewer hidden risks at the same time. Kevin Plexico, senior vice president of information solutions at Deltek, explains what the data shows about balancing speed and scrutiny across the market right now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As hantavirus cases draw renewed attention, contractors are part of how the government builds capacity in public health emergencies, especially with large gatherings like the World Cup on the horizon. At the same time, a new Pentagon memo is putting more pressure on how contractors account for facility costs. Jim Carroll, CEO of the Professional Services Council joins me to connect those dots.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When a contractor files a bid protest at GAO, the award usually pauses while the protest is reviewed. But recent court decisions are clarifying when agencies can override that stay and how closely judges will examine those decisions afterward. Here to help us understand the complexity of this contingency is Zach Prince, partner at Haynes Boone.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Last year, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed the military services to reduce the number of Permanent Change of Station moves by 50%. The Air Force, in partnership with RAND, then took a closer look at how longer assignments and fewer moves would impact budgets, readiness, retention and the career development of Airmen. To understand more about RAND's findings, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Lisa Harrington, senior operations researcher at RAND and Kelly Atkinson, political scientist at RAND. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal agencies doubled their number of AI use cases over the past year. That’s according to the latest inventory maintained by the Office of Management and Budget. There are now more than 3,600 use cases documented across the government. Gregory Barbaccia is the federal chief information officer and chief AI officer. In a conversation with Jason Miller, Barbaccia gave us an update on Federal News Network’s 2026 A-I and Data Exchange.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Taxpayer Advocacy Panel’s 2025 annual report surfaces nearly 200 recommendations on where IRS communication and services continue to break down. Philip Hwang, national chair of the Taxpayer Advocacy Panel at the IRS, explains what taxpayers are still struggling with and how their feedback helps to shape what changes next.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A tied vote, a stalled reconciliation package and big questions about how laws actually get finished Reorganization plans can look clean on paper and turn out far messier in real life The IRS’s service picture may be improving, but taxpayers are still running into real frictionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A year ago, the Interior Department pitched a sweeping reorganization as a way to save money and streamline operations. What the evidence actually shows about how that played out is the focus of my conversation with Tim Whitehouse, executive director of Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Congress is wrestling with the big questions, but it’s the details that are slowing everything down. That tension between ambition and execution shows up across the agenda and it’s shaping what happens next. Here to bring us to speed on the details is WTOP's capitol hill correspondent, Mitchell Miller.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The growth of shared services for grants across government has climbed steadily over the last five years. Through the Grants Quality Service Management Office, 29 agencies are using standardized technology services to help award more than $1.2 trillion a year. With more on how the Grants QSMO plans to further drive standardization into grants management, Federal News Network’s executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Agriculture Department employees are suing Secretary Brooke Rollins over what they are calling “coercive” religious messaging. The lawsuit comes in response to an Easter message that Rollins sent to 100,000 department employees. Plaintiffs say her email implies an “in-group” religion at USDA and that those who don’t agree may face “negative consequences.” Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on "The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton" Environmental change can turn rare risks into immediate problems and the Army Corps of Engineers is stepping in to manage the consequences “Testing new technology is one thing, making it work in the field and getting people to trust and use it is another Some of the most important environmental policy work doesn’t happen in legislation it shows up in how agencies act, spend and measure resultsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Testing new technology is one thing. Making it work in real conditions and earning trust is another. USDA’s new National Proving Grounds Network is designed to close that gap, testing emerging agriculture technologies on working farms and ranches so they can move from idea to adoption. Here to explain how that model is taking shape is Under Secretary for Research, Education and Economics and Chief Scientist at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Scott Hutchins.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shaping environmental outcomes isn’t limited to writing legislation. In many cases, it comes down to knowing how federal decisions actually get made, through regulation, procurement, data and funding choices that shape behavior across the system. That’s the approach being taught to climate professionals by Mai Sistla, Senior Climate Policy Advisor at the Aspen Policy Academy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Glacier‑related flooding is becoming more frequent and more dangerous in parts of the country, prompting the Corps to step in with targeted mitigation efforts. We hear how that work is unfolding on the ground, from Mike Records and Daryl Downing with the Army Corps of Engineers on site in Alaska.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s grant processes are about to get a little more transparent. That’s because a new law requires FEMA to publish a dashboard of public assistance claims stemming from federal disasters. That requirement comes as the administration and Congress consider broader reforms to FEMA. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Defense Department is proposing a sweeping rule that would significantly expand the government’s scrutiny of foreign ownership and influence across the defense industrial base, requiring tens of thousands of uncleared contractors to comply with security requirements historically applied only to companies handling classified information. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Scott Freling, co-chair of Covington’s Government Contracts practice, and Heather Finstuen, partner at Covington & Burling.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A joint effort bringing together Navy medicine, the Air Force Research Laboratory, NASA and academic researchers is reshaping how the government studies human performance under changing gravity. The focus is building durable capability for longer, more demanding missions. My guests are Rich Folga and Dr. Michael Schubert. Dr. Schubert is Professor in the ENT Department at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Mr. Folga is Aerospace Medical Research Device Program Manager, Naval Aerospace Medical Research Laboratory. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on "The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton" The Army is testing whether rail networks can carry medical evacuation in modern warfare What happens to the human body when missions become longer, more demanding and harder to support from Earth? As federal missions grow more complex, technology transfer is getting a credential meant to sustain expertise and credibility over timeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Using allied rail systems in Europe, the Army is testing how rail evacuation could expand medical capacity during large‑scale conflict. Here with more details on what's being tested by this exercise is Col. Crystal Belew, Commander of the 519th Hospital Center.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Laboratory Consortium has introduced a professional designation designed to strengthen how federal labs move research into real‑world use by building recognized, transferable expertise. The goal is to create a clearer marker of credibility for agency leadership, industry partners and the workforce itself. My guest is Andy Myers, technology transfer lead at the Kansas City National Security Campus.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Postal Service generally pays its own bills through its own revenue. That’s been the way it has operated for more than 50 years. But the agency is floating the possibility of Congress stepping in to provide more financial assistance to keep the agency from running out of cash early next year. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

House Republicans are demanding more information about the costs of settlements for federal employee disputes with their agencies. A new letter from leaders on the Oversight committee argues that agencies are settling too often, instead of fighting cases they could likely win. But the letter is also coming under scrutiny from federal employment attorneys. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the federal government takes on more financial risk, a GAO review of government‑wide grants management points to staffing limits, data mismatches and unclear roles that complicate how funds are awarded and overseen. The findings suggest persistent operational challenges that accounting fixes alone haven’t solved. Jeff Arkin is 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.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Managing disaster risk is about how risk is understood, priced and communicated across the system The size of the federal grants system is well known, how well it’s set up to manage that scale is another question Receiving federal funds now comes with a different kind of risk calculus for granteesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A tougher federal anti‑fraud posture is changing how grants and contracts are scrutinized, especially when routine compliance decisions come under review after problems emerge. We’ll look at where scrutiny is showing up, who’s being held accountable and what recipients are expected to get right with Michael Anderson, counsel at Smith Anderson.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Insurance pricing plays a powerful role in signaling where disaster risk is increasing and where the federal government is increasingly exposed when coverage breaks down. We’ll examine a proposal that would bring the federal government into the reinsurance market, how that could affect those signals and what questions leaders should ask before shifting risk further upstream. Professor Ben Collier of the University of Wisconsin is here to guide us through those questions.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Pandemic Response Accountability Committee was originally scheduled to sunset in September 2025. But the pandemic watchdog has an ongoing mission; it’s overseeing another broad tranche of funding. The One Big, Beautiful Bill Act signed into law last year will keep the PRAC up and running for at least another 8 years and tasks the committee with keeping tabs on the budget reconciliation bill. Ken Dieffenbach is PRAC’s executive director. He talked with Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman about the committee’s ongoing work. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Trump-appointed advisory committee is urging sweeping overhauls at the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The FEMA Review Council approved its final report to the president last week. The group’s report do not include earlier, draft recommendations that would have cut FEMA’s workforce by up to 50 percent. Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me with the details.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry GertonIf you feel unsure about retirement, you’re asking the right question Innovation has expanded choice in consumer finance, but it’s also exposed limits in how well regulation keeps up and who ends up bearing the risk Fixed‑price contracts assume stable requirements. Federal missions rarely cooperate, and the friction between the two is back in focusSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From fintech tools to new credit models, consumer finance has changed faster than the regulatory framework around it. Todd Zywicki says that gap is a central focus of the new Institute for Consumer Financial Choice at George Mason University, which is designed to bring more empirical research into consumer‑finance policy debates.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For many federal employees, retirement planning stalls at the same point: uncertainty about whether the numbers, timing, and assumptions really hold up. Instead of chasing certainty, there’s a better way to assess readiness. Joining me to explain how feds can evaluate retirement readiness using structure rather than stress is Certified financial planner Thiago Glieger.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal execution increasingly turns on how risk is managed across contracts and capabilities. Recent policy signals are testing whether existing structures can absorb that pressure. Here to break down the root issues is Stephanie Kostro, president of the Professional Services Council.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Military spouses were on Capitol Hill last week to push lawmakers to support legislation aimed at expanding access to capital and Small Business Administration resources for military spouse entrepreneurs , The effort's advocates say this could help address the persistently high military spouse unemployment rate and improve military retention. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Office of Personnel Management is being urged 'not' to shut down the Combined Federal Campaign. More than 40 Democrats penned a letter to OPM, warning that ending the CFC would be “disastrous” for the organizations that rely on it. The letter comes as the Trump administration is signaling a possible decommission of the decades-old program. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When GI Bill abuse surfaced years ago, veterans’ benefits kept flowing to schools that met higher‑education standards but failed veterans themselves. Now, as accreditation standards are back under review, advocates say lessons from that era still haven’t fully been applied. They’re pushing to give Title 38, the veterans’ benefits law a clearer role in determining which schools qualify for GI Bill dollars. Joining me to explain how those changes could better protect veterans before harm occurs is Vice President for Veterans and Military Policy at Veterans Education Success, Will Hubbard.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton From the battlefield to the benefits system: how government decisions during war echo long after service ends Veterans have seen this story before and they’re paying close attention to what comes nextCongress is heading into a busy legislative stretch, even as larger questions hang over its futureSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

At stake in the Bagram bombing case is whether contractors retain broad immunity when supporting military operations and how much legal distance the government can place between itself and the work it assigns. The outcome could shape how the Defense Department handles oversight and risk‑sharing in future conflicts. I talked with Lisa Himes, of counsel with Rogers Joseph O’Donnell.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lawmakers return for a packed two‑week work period, with several major bills queued up for action. At the same time, unresolved redistricting fights around the country are raising longer‑term questions about the shape and capacity of the next Congress. Loren Duggan, managing editor at Bloomberg Government, joins us to sort through both the immediate agenda and what’s coming next.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The number of contract awards to 8(a) small businesses are down across the government. But Native American, Alaskan Native and Native Hawaiian-owned companies are feeling the brunt of the downturn. The Small Business Administration also has slowed down the approval of new applications to the 8(a) program. SBA hasn’t processed an application since August. All of these concerns drove the Native American Contractors Association to finally speak up about the impact of the Trump administration’s actions on their communities. For more on this latest in a growing number of concerns about the 8(a) program, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

IRS employees temporarily reassigned to cover frontline work during this year’s filing season will stay on these assignments a while longer. The agency is asking IT and human resources staff to stay on temporary details for another 120 days. Most impacted staff have been in training and are now addressing a backlog of amended tax returns. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cyber spending often focuses on new platforms and advanced defenses. But experience shows those investments fall short when organizational practices, training and accountability don’t evolve alongside them. Here with a perspective on why people remain central to effective cyber security is Senior Director, Civilian Experience and Policy Research at ForsMarsh, Nicole Togno. Cyber spending often focuses on new platforms and advanced defenses. But experience shows those investments fall short when organizational practices, training, and accountability don’t evolve alongside them. Here with a perspective on why people remain central to effective cyber security is Senior Director, Civilian Experience and Policy Research at ForsMarsh, Nicole Togno.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From emergency alerts to disaster communications, the systems that keep the public informed depend on secure communications networks. Here to explain how the FCC is approaching cybersecurity through the lens of public safety and why preparedness matters as much as regulation is Chief, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau at the Federal Communications Commission, Zenji Nakazawa.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry GertonWhat does the FCC have to do with cyber security? You can buy better tools, but that alone won’t get you to perfect cyber securitySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Defense Department has struck deals with some of the nation’s largest technology companies to deploy their advanced artificial intelligence capabilities on its classified networks. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is urging water, power and other critical infrastructure organizations to prepare to operate without internet and other technology services. That’s the overarching goal of a new initiative unveiled by CISA this week. The agency says organizations need to be prepared to operate through IT outages and other challenges during a geopolitical crisis. For more, Federal News Network Justin Doubleday joins me. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Public Service Recognition Week often thanks people for what they do. This year, one national effort is asking something harder: how the country understands public service in the first place A new executive order makes fixed‑price, performance‑based contracts the default across the federal government Customer experience modernization sounds straightforward, until agencies try to execute itSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

At a moment when trust in government is closely tied to how work actually gets done, the National Academy of Public Administration is treating recognition as more than a ceremony. We’ll talk about why NAPA is making “Celebrating the American Public Servant” a year‑long effort and what they’re learning about durability, trust, and service across every level of government with James‑Christian Blockwood, president and CEO of the Academy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal leaders are under growing pressure to improve how the public experiences government, even as they manage compliance, security and aging systems. We'll explore where agencies are encountering the most friction and what’s helping them move from intent to execution with general manager for U.S. federal government at Granicus, John Boerstler.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new executive order makes fixed‑price, performance‑based contracts the default across the federal government, requiring extra justification and senior approval when agencies want to do something else. That shift could reshape how contracting officers plan, justify and manage major programs, according to Senior Fellow at the George Mason University Baroni Center for Government Contracting, Emily Murphy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal hiring managers will soon have a new tech resource at their disposal. The Office of Personnel Management has just rolled out “USA Class.” It’s an AI tool that can generate federal position descriptions. With the new resource, OPM is hoping it can relieve some hiring burdens for HR staff. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The State Department has concluded its widespread reduction in force nearly a year after it began. The department is officially separating hundreds of Foreign Service officers who received reduction in force notices last summer. The department tried to part ways with these employees before, but has kept on paid administrative leave since July 2025. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Public Service Recognition Week comes at an uneasy moment for the federal workforce after cuts, restructuring and tighter performance rules. So what does “recognition” actually mean right now? For a lot of employees, recognition isn’t about awards, it’s about trust, respect and whether their work still matters day to day A conversation with a 2026 Sammies awardee whose federal research reshaped an entire industrySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Public Service Recognition Week is usually about gratitude. This year, it follows workforce reductions, sharper accountability rules, and renewed debates about capacity and morale. Scott Kupor says recognition, in this moment, is less about ceremony and more about how the government expects people to do their jobs.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Sammies award this year recognizes USDA research that improved animal health and food productivity through genetics. Dr. Paul VanRaden joins us to explain how long‑term public investment delivered results for the dairy industry and for the broader public.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Government Accountability Office is facing a budget cut from House appropriators for the second year in a row. GAO would need to cut roughly 1,000 jobs under a bill being advanced in the House Appropriations Committee. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

At the State Department, a growing demand for passports has led the Bureau of Consular Affairs to rethink its customer experience strategy. In 2025, the bureau issued more than 27 million passport books and cards. That’s a one-year record. Matt Pierce is the deputy assistant secretary of State for passports. As he told Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman, the department is managing to hold processing times at record lows – despite that record volume.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton An IBM settlement is reshaping how contractors look at DEI compliance For some new retirees, the paperwork may be done, but the money still hasn’t arrived Public Service Recognition Week is about honoring federal work as it exists now, this year’s Sammies tell that story in a different waySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Public Service Recognition Week is often about celebration, but it also serves as a moment to reflect honestly on how federal work is actually being done. This year, the Partnership for Public Service narrowed the Sammies awards to just four recipients. Michelle Amante joins me to talk about why that matters and what these awardees represent about public service right now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Thousands of federal employees retired at the end of the last fiscal year expecting a smooth transition, only to find themselves waiting months for their first retirement payment. That delay can turn careful planning into real stress, especially when questions about savings, TSP withdrawals and Medicare decisions all come at once. Federal retirement expert Tammy Flanagan is here with wise advice on how retirees can steady themselves when the timeline doesn't go as planned.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A recent settlement involving IBM has drawn broad attention across the federal contracting community, drawing attention well beyond the specifics of a single company. For many contractors, the case raises questions about how workplace initiatives intersect with long‑standing employment and contracting rules. Joining me with more details is Sheila Abron, Partner at Fisher Phillips and Chair of the Firm’s Government Contracting, Compliance, and Reporting Practice Group.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More than 100 Environmental Protection Agency employees were disciplined last year, after signing a “declaration of dissent.” Many of those employees are now pursuing formal legal remedies, alleging unlawful retaliation. Here with the latest, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Space Force is getting ready to bring part-timers into its force as it continues to build a personnel model radically different from other services. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In Washington, a vote doesn’t always mean resolution. In some of the biggest congressional fights, decisions can leave everyone bruised, with new conflicts already taking shape. WTOP Capitol Hill Correspondent Mitchell Miller joins us with a look at what Congress has settled and what it hasn’t.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on 'The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton'Congress already strips pensions for some crimes, a new bill would expand the list In government, offering your best professional advice doesn’t guarantee it will be taken or that it will be risk‑free A vote doesn’t always bring closure on Capitol Hill, why some of Congress’s biggest fights don’t really end when the gavel comes downSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal News Network has been reporting on the fallout from EPA’s decision to discipline employees who signed a declaration of dissent. Now, we’re turning to how that call was made, despite internal warnings about legal risk. It highlights a familiar tension across government: what happens to career expertise when agency leaders choose another path. Here to discuss his reporting on this issue is Kevin Bogardus from E&E News.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Under current law, Members convicted of certain corruption offenses can forfeit their pensions, while other serious misconduct is treated differently. A bipartisan bill aims to close those gaps by including violent crimes and sexual misconduct involving staff. Supporters say the goal is accountability, not punishment by press release. Congressman Suhas Subramanyam, who co‑sponsored the bill, joins me now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Department of the Navy is one the biggest users of the Defense Department’s Gen AI.mil platform. The Navy designated the generative artificial intelligence tool as an enterprise service in just five days after evaluating it. It also told all employees to use it for controlled unclassified information and Impact Level 5 (IL5) data by April 30 or yesterday. But just giving sailors, marines and civilians access to the large language models and saying “use it” without any training is not a recipe for success. For more on how the DON is ensuring its employees are gaining real benefits from AI tools, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me with details.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

New essay questions on many federal job applications asking candidates how they would advance the Trump administration’s policies, are optional, according to the Office of Personnel Management. Unions challenging the questions in a lawsuit say many job applicants can’t skip over the essays and can’t submit their applications without answering them. The questions are appearing on a growing number of federal job applications. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A court ruling protected the Institute for Museum and Library Services, but the fight isn’t over Markets have felt shaky for months, but the returns tell a very different story How shared experience plays a role in helping people reset under sustained stressSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Markets have been noisy for months. But when you look past daily swings, many TSP funds are firmly in positive territory, highlighting the gap between headline volatility and how markets actually price information. Certified Financial Planner Art Stein is here to help explain the disconnect and how investors should respond.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sustained stress is a reality for many veterans, first responders and federal employees. New data from the Veteran Tickets Foundation looks at how shared live experiences help people reset and reconnect, particularly when formal systems move slowly or unevenly. Federal News Network's Eric White caught up with Chief Strategy Officer for Veteran Tickets Foundation, Steve Weintraub, to get more insight.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A federal court has blocked administrative efforts to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services. But the administration’s latest budget proposal would eliminate its funding anyway, putting legal clarity and budget reality on different tracks. Joining me to walk through what the ruling does, what it doesn’t, and what happens next is President of the American Libraries Association, Sam Helmick.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

GAO has flagged fraud risks in federally funded, state‑administered programs for years, from weak data sharing to inconsistent controls. Many of those vulnerabilities persist, not because agencies lack awareness, but because of how responsibility, capacity, and oversight are structured. We’ll talk about what prevents known risks from turning into management change with Seto Bagdoyan, director of forensic audits and investigative service 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.

GAO has flagged fraud risks in federally funded, state‑administered programs for years, from weak data sharing to inconsistent controls. Many of those vulnerabilities persist, not because agencies lack awareness, but because of how responsibility, capacity, and oversight are structured. We’ll talk about what prevents known risks from turning into management change with Seto Bagdoyan, director of forensic audits and investigative service 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.

A new report is shedding light on how Department of Government Efficiency staffers gained access to sensitive Treasury Department payment systems last year. The Government Accountability Office found Treasury gave DOGE staffers access to data without following IT security rules. Privacy watchdog groups say GAO’s report may be the tip of the iceberg on DOGE’s access to sensitive government data. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Army’s newest AI project ARIA, or the Rapid Implementation of Artificial Intelligence initiative, is organized around three lines of effort that Army leaders say will ultimately merge into one. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Deputy Under Secretary of the Army David Fitzgerald, who breaks down those efforts in part two of the conversation we began on Tuesday. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Extreme weather is forcing federal agencies to rethink who bears the risk when long‑term cleanup work is overwhelmed Cutting contracts can promise quick savings, the harder question is where the cost actually landsFor families with loved ones behind bars, missing information often means carrying risks they can’t see or controlSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Families of incarcerated people depend on timely, accurate information to make decisions about safety, health and contact, but when that information is missing, the risk shifts directly onto them. Those gaps raise a larger question about why transparency for prison families hasn’t been treated as a core government responsibility. Here to share that impact is Heather Pirtle, president and founder of FIRST Network.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As natural disasters grow more frequent and intense, new EPA Inspector General findings suggest some federal facility Superfund cleanups may fail when conditions overwhelm existing remedies; pushing environmental and health risks into surrounding communities. We’ll discuss what that means for EPA staff, partner agencies and prevention planning before disasters strike, with Erin Barnes‑Weaver, deputy assistant inspector general for evaluation at the EPA Office of Inspector General.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A recent review of IRS contract cancellations found hundreds of millions of dollars in potential savings, but far less clarity about how those decisions shifted impact onto service delivery and workloads. The findings raise questions about how agencies assess who absorbs the risk when decisions are made quickly. I'm joined by LaToya George from the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Top Treasury officials are telling Congress that the IRS pulled off a remarkable feat, carrying out a busier-than-usual filing season with a much smaller workforce. But the Trump administration is still pursuing further workforce and budget cuts for the IRS next year. Officials overseeing the IRS say the agency’s long-anticipated investments in technology are paying off and its adoption of artificial intelligence and automation tools means the agency can do more with less. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman joins us with more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From bartender to elevator mechanic and meat cutter to wood worker, more than 100 federal job titles are about to be swept into broader workforce categories. The Office of Personnel Management is undertaking a new effort to trim down the 600-plus federal job series that exist across government. This first round of consolidation will impact about 5,000 federal employees. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Some of the federal government’s most trusted public data tools aren’t being maintained the way they once were Good policy still depends on numbers the public can trust and on systems built to sustain them Fraud doesn’t always slip through the cracks, sometimes it walks straight through the front door of a federal programSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

An analysis from USAFacts finds that many of the government’s most important public datasets are no longer being updated or maintained as expected. The findings underscore how staffing, continuity and organizational attention shape whether federal data remains usable at all. Here to break down what’s changing and why is Richard Coffin, chief of research and advocacy at USAFacts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Economic indicators are meant to bring clarity to decision‑making across government and the economy. But the systems that produce those numbers are operating under growing strain, from volatility to skepticism to capacity limits. A new cross‑institution effort aims to strengthen how federal data are produced and protected over time. We’ll discuss that work with John Sabelhaus, Senior Fellow in economic studies at the Brookings Institution.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new acquisition structure has been taking shape within the Army. It shifts the focus away from managing individual programs and toward overseeing portfolios of capabilities. Senior leaders now known as portfolio acquisition executives oversee capability areas, while the offices responsible for individual programs have been rebranded from program executive offices to capability program executives. Dennis Teefy is project manager for command and control applications, within the new Capability Program Executive for Command and Control Information Network. He talked with Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis about the new structure and how it’s changing things.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Army recently launched a new initiative aimed at rapidly delivering artificial intelligence tools to soldiers. Dubbed Project ARIA, short for Army Rapid Implementation of Artificial Intelligence; the effort will initially focus on three areas, including automating the Army’s planning, programming, budgeting, and execution, or PPBE, process, building a “model armory” and improving supply chain management. The Army will partner directly with top AI firms to deliver solutions in months rather than years. For more on the project, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Deputy Under Secretary of the Army David Fitzgerald. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As unpaid DHS contractor invoices stretch back nearly nine months, companies supporting critical homeland security missions say workforce stability and operational readiness are increasingly at risk. With Congress still weeks away from funding relief, the question is how long that capacity can be sustained. Here to break down those impacts is Stephanie Kostro, president of the Professional Services Council.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Unpaid bills at DHS are testing how long critical homeland security missions can hold Modernizing preparedness law means asking whether long‑standing systems are built to last over time Around the world, governments are adapting to sustained pressure and not waiting for stability to returnSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Modernizing preparedness law requires more than updating language or refreshing authorities. It means confronting where coordination, capacity and accountability have fallen short under stress as threats have evolved. Here to walk through some key considerations is U.S. policy and advocacy officer at the Global Health Technologies Coalition, Alex Long.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Drawing on experiences from governments across the globe, a new trends report focuses less on prediction and more on how public institutions respond when resources are tight and systems are under strain. We’ll talk about what those shared lessons suggest for decision‑making ahead with the executive director of the Center for Government Insights at Deloitte, Bill Eggers.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Agriculture Department is expanding its reorganization plans; moving hundreds of additional employees from its component agencies out of the Washington DC area. Food Safety and Inspection Service employees working at its headquarters are being asked to move to states like Iowa and Georgia. USDA is also doubling down on reassignments that began under the first Trump administration. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

President Trump’s pick to lead the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is withdrawing from consideration. Sean Plankey was first nominated to serve as CISA director last March. But after a long wait in the Senate, Plankey says he needs to step back, leaving the cyber agency without a permanent director for the foreseeable future. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me...See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The budget resolution and reconciliation process are absorbing much of Congress’s attention, staff time and political oxygen. That focus is crowding the calendar for core governing work, including upcoming appropriations, must‑do bills, and pending confirmations. Here to break down how the current focus reshapes the rest of the legislative calendar is Deputy News Director at Bloomberg Government, Loren Duggan.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the United States prepares to host the World Cup and the Olympics, attention is turning to how federal agencies plan for passenger experience and tourism capacity. A recent House‑passed aviation bill highlights those connections in a tangible way. Representative Dina Titus from Nevada joins me now to discuss the issue.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton When Congress focuses on one big fight, something else usually stalls A court decision has strengthened the CFPB’s footing as debates over its future continue Updating aviation consumer protections is one piece of a broader question about how the federal government prepares for large‑scale travel and tourism demandsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A recent court ruling requiring continued funding of CFPB gives the organization room to keep carrying out its mission despite ongoing pressure from the White House and Congress. We’ll examine how the decision affects the bureau’s day‑to‑day operations and longer‑term outlook, with Senior Counsel at Ballard Spahr, Alan Kaplinsky.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A pay raise for federal employees in 2027 is looking even further out of reach. The House Appropriations Committee has advanced spending legislation that makes no mention of a federal pay raise next year. That aligns with the White House’s omission of a civilian raise in its budget request from earlier this month. Here with the latest, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Defense Department employees have become the latest to lose their protections provided under collective bargaining agreements as the Trump administration continues to strip workers of their union rights at agencies with national security missions. But unions say they have represented federal workers for decades, have successfully challenged similar efforts in the past and will continue to fight the move. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Ira Rushing from the Tully Rinckey law firm.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OPM’s request for more granular FEHB health data and the Postal Service’s suspension of employer pension contributions raise separate issues, but they share common questions about privacy, authority and long‑term trust in benefit structures. John Hatton joins us with NARFE’s perspective.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USPS leaders have warned Congress about financial strain, rising costs and the possibility of service reductions, concerns that show up first in rural delivery. That stress now collides with growing demands on the mail system, including election‑related responsibilities. Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski representing Illinois’ 13th Congressional District, joins me with her thoughts on the challenges facing the postal service.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Transportation Security Administration has quietly been advancing big changes to the private contractor security screening program. TSA says the goal is innovation and a better passenger experience. It comes against the backdrop of Trump administration efforts to privatize more TSA operations. For the latest, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Nearly seven months into the fiscal year, the Small Business Administration is considering moving the small business contracting goal posts for agencies. In a document sent to agencies in March, SBA detailed several new factors it will consider as it grades agency efforts to contract with small businesses. For more on this new methodology and why SBA's plans are causing concern among small business experts and on Capitol Hill, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me to discuss.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Congressional scrutiny of the Department of Defense’s clearance backlogs comes as the Pentagon again asks civilian employees to volunteer for temporary immigration‑support deployments. Together, the moves highlight growing strain on the defense civilian workforce and the systems that support it. We’ll unpack both with Dan Meyer, national security partner at Tully Rinckey.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Three former FBI agents fired last fall are now bringing a class‑action lawsuit, arguing their removals crossed a line with consequences beyond their own cases. What the legal challenge could mean for agents working controversial investigations and for the Bureau itself is the focus of our conversation with former FBI agent David Sundberg.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A new strategic plan signals how the Office of Special Counsel sees its responsibilities evolving over the next five years The outcome of one lawsuit could shape how future FBI investigations are handled Two Pentagon workforce decisions are raising new concerns about capacity and consentSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Office of Special Counsel occupies a complicated place in the federal system; part protector, part enforcer and increasingly, a test of trust for career employees. As demand rises and scrutiny intensifies, OSC is formally defining how it sees that role over the next five years. My guest is Charles Baldis, senior counsel and designee to the acting special counsel at the Office of Special Counsel.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After major staffing reductions under the Trump administration, the federal workforce is at a 15-year low. But now, some agencies are reversing course and talking again about expanding recruitment opportunities. That comes as administration officials are also pushing for hiring reforms, like technical assessments and pooled recruitment. For the latest on agency hiring prospects, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman sat down with vice president of government affairs at the Partnership for Public Service, Jenny Mattingley.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The federal government’s landlord and its human resources office are embarking on plans to share the same headquarters. The Office of Personnel Management and the General Services Administration are moving together under one roof. This is the latest example of agencies in the Washington, D.C. area moving out of headquarters that aren’t meeting minimum occupancy requirements recently set by law. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Advanced computing and AI are reshaping nearly every sector, but access to those capabilities remains uneven. The National Science Foundation is launching a new effort aimed at broadening who can use advanced computing. Dr. Erwin Gianchandani joins me from the National Science Foundation.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton The real challenge with AI and advanced computing is closing the gap between where the technology exists and who can actually use it Quantum computing is a national priority, but who’s actually in charge? A major environmental decision is now locked in, with lingering questions about the process behind itSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The federal government’s national strategy for quantum computing lays out broad goals, but a new GAO review finds gaps in coordination, accountability, and performance measurement across agencies. We’ll walk through what’s missing and what updating the strategy could change with Candace Wright, director for science, technology assessment, and analytics at the Government Accountability Office. Read the report here: https://files.gao.gov/reports/GAO-26-107759/index.html?_gl=1*1u44tf*_ga*MTc1Mjk3OTI1MC4xNzQ2NjUwOTc0*_ga_V393SNS3SR*czE3NzQ2MjcyOTMkbzQ4JGcwJHQxNzc0NjI3MzAyJGo1MSRsMCRoMA.. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The National Nuclear Security Administration has finalized a site‑wide environmental impact statement for Los Alamos, shaping the lab’s path for years to come. Reviewers say the process raises important questions about how impacts were evaluated and what assumptions were made and how those choices may ripple through future oversight and planning. Joining me to explain where process missteps might affect future implementation is Dr. Dylan Spaulding, a senior scientist at the Union of Concerned Scientists.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For perhaps the first time since the Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act became law in 1994, the Office of Management and Budget is holding agencies accountable for how they buy commercial items. What’s different now is that OMB wants agencies to prove they’re meeting the spirit and intent, not just the letter, of the law. For more on how OMB is raising the bar, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The challenge of delivering capabilities to warfighters at a faster rate is hardly a new problem for the Defense Department. But with the rise of artificial intelligence and cloud services, there may be no better opportunity to shift the timetable and accelerate delivery. For more on how at least the Marine Corps is cutting down the time it takes to deliver capabilities, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller talked to David Raley, the chief digital business officer of the Marine Corps Community Services, about a platform that is cutting down the time to delivery to as little as 15 minutes.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Budgets don’t just fund programs. They tell the workforce and industry what the government values most Political transitions test how disciplined contractors really are about risk, compliance and decision‑makingSometimes even a solid argument isn’t enough to save a bid protestSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Court of Federal Claims agreed that the Navy mishandled affiliate past performance in a major procurement, then rejected the protest on procedural grounds. The Noblis decision is a cautionary tale about record discipline, expert evidence and the limits of post‑hoc fixes. Here to walk us through the case is Zach Prince, partner at Haynes Boone.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Periods immediately after an election are often defined less by new rules than by unanswered questions. For government contractors, that uncertainty can create real legal, contractual, and operational risk long before policies change. Joining me to talk about how contractors can prepare for political transitions without overcorrecting is partner at Jenner and Block, David Robbins.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Looking at the president’s defense budget request, the story isn’t just how much money is there, but what the administration is asking the Pentagon to lean into. Meanwhile, shutdown‑related delays at DHS are testing contractor resilience in real time. Jim Carroll, CEO of the Professional Services Council, joins us to walk through the real world impacts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Forest Service is defending its plan to relocate its headquarters out West and shutter most of its research facilities, as part of a major agency reorganization. The agency is looking to move its headquarters to Salt Lake City, Utah and close all of its regional offices. The agency is making its case to Congress, but says it will proceed with these plans with or without approval from lawmakers. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Department of Homeland Security has now been in a shutdown for more than two months. DHS officials are warning Congress about growing backlog of contracts, cancelled planning activities, and more impacts as the shutdown drags on. For the latest, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Running for federal office now comes with security costs that were once rare and those costs are rising fast. A new analysis looks at how the growing need for personal and digital security is changing who can realistically run for office, and how campaigns operate behind the scenes. We’ll talk through what that shift means for access, participation, and the health of democratic institutions, with Justin Sherman of the Public Service Alliance.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Congress is building a path to resolution for DHS, even as it opens the next appropriations cycle Congress is often treated like an abstract institution, but it’s also a workplace, with real security pressures and family realities The rising cost of security is reshaping who can run for office — and how campaigns operateSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Behind the scenes on Capitol Hill, concerns about personal safety, logistics and family well‑being shape how members and staff experience the job day to day. We’ll take a practical look at how those very human factors affect focus, capacity, and the ability to do sustained legislative work. Danielle Stewart from the POPVOX Foundation joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

DHS remains the only federal agency operating without a finalized 2026 appropriations bill, leaving Congress to rely on an unusually intricate reconciliation process to reach an outcome. All of this is happening as lawmakers begin shaping 2027 spending plans, layering urgency onto an already stalled debate. We’ll walk through the implications with Capitol Hill Correspondent for WTOP, Mitchell Miller.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trump administration is widening its lens for recruiting technologists to the federal workforce. The Office of Personnel Management has just expanded the Tech Force hiring program to include opportunities for cybersecurity specialists. Here with the latest, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The White House has set a goal to reduce military spouse unemployment by 5%, but there is only so much it can do since it significantly scaled back federal hiring. Now, the Defense Department is stepping in with new efforts to address the issue. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A new digital catalog is changing how the public can engage with America’s overseas war memorials and records ARPA‑H’s “1 Cure” program is betting that smarter design can expand cancer care to more people, fasterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The promise of ARPA‑H isn’t just speed, but intention, building ambitious research programs around patient impact rather than hype. One of its newest efforts aims to make cancer treatment simpler, more accessible, and easier to deploy. Here to explain the vision behind “1 Cure,” is the Program Manager Dr. Wilfred Ngwa.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For decades, the American Battle Monuments Commission has served as guardian of U.S. military cemeteries and memorials around the world. A new online catalog now extends that mission by making records and collections accessible far beyond those physical sites. We’ll look at who benefits most and what this access makes possible with Charlotte Meunier, museum curator for the American Battle Monuments Commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The IRS is touting its performance during this year’s filing season as evidence that it can still carry out its tax duties despite losing more than a quarter of its workforce under the Trump administration. The agency’s top official says technology improvements at the IRS are making it easier for taxpayers to get help online and that it’s seen a year-over-year decrease in phone calls. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency will not offer internships to CyberCorps Scholarship for Service students this summer due to the government shutdown. It’s the second year in a row CISA has withdrawn the internships. But the Office of Personnel Management is rolling out new cybersecurity job opportunities this week. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Many former federal employees are navigating the job market for the first time in years and finding that networking looks and feels different than they remember A proposed federal personnel shift could chill whistleblowers long before anyone gets fired A big refund feels good, but getting more of your money throughout the year may feel betterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Many former federal employees are navigating the job market for the first time in years, only to find that the rules around hiring and networking have shifted. Research suggests the process feels more transactional, but that doesn’t mean experience and competence no longer matter. Helping us make sense of the new normal is managing director of business intelligence at Express Employment International, Stephanie Miller.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As agencies begin reclassifying parts of the federal workforce to Schedule Policy/career, the Project on Government Oversight warns that shifts in the rules may carry real consequences for whistleblowers. Their analysis argues Congress, not agencies is the key backstop for ensuring protections apply regardless of classification. Here to walk us through the risks is Joe Spielberger, Senior policy counsel at the POGO.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Many federal employees treat tax refunds as a bonus, even though they reflect pay that could have arrived earlier with different planning. In a moment when many families are reassessing work, finances, and long‑term decisions like college, timing and strategy matter. Here to help feds think through both is president of Armed Forces Mutual, Mike Meese.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When the Office of Management and Budget decided to remove the specific section on enterprise risk management from Circular A-123, Eric Ueland, the deputy director for management, received some direct feedback. For more on why Ueland says the ERM community’s unhappiness with OMB’s decision is overblown, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now with details.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

House Democrats are doubling down on their investigation into the Trump administration’s management of the government’s retirement processing system. That comes as some federal retirees remain without annuities months after submitting their applications. Here with the latest, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton As the Department of Labor faces intense scrutiny over fraud and oversight, its new inspector general is bringing a law‑enforcement mindset to the job GAO finds most of the Pentagon’s joint bases are falling short of facility sustainment goals, raising new questions about readiness and accountabilitySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Defense Department’s joint bases were created to improve efficiency and readiness, but sustaining those facilities has proven uneven. A new GAO report finds most joint bases are funded below sustainment goals, with limited visibility into how resources are allocated and lingering disputes over who pays for what. To walk through the findings and what they mean for readiness, we’re joined by Alissa Czyz, Director of Defense Capabilities and Management 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.

From unemployment insurance to workforce programs, the stakes for fraud oversight at Labor remain high. The department’s inspector general says his law‑enforcement experience influences how he prioritizes cases and assesses risk. Anthony D’Esposito, the DOL IG, joins me now to discuss his approach to this important work.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For the Navy, consolidating and reducing its sprawling IT networks has been a decades‑long effort. But in recent years, the pace has picked up. Starting from several thousand networks, the service expects to be down to fewer than 100 by next year. Scott St. Pierre, the Navy’s director of enterprise networks and cybersecurity, spoke with Federal News Network’s Jared Serbu at our recent DoD Modernization Exchange.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is giving employees with disabilities more flexibility to telework as a reasonable accommodation. CDC supervisors will once again be able to grant telework as an interim reasonable accommodation, while employees wait for final approval from the Department of Health and Human Services. HHS rolled out a new policy last year that strictly limited medical telework. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton New technology is changing how federal agencies use personal data and this week, new tools aim to show what responsible use should really look like As federal agencies rethink how data moves, they’re also rethinking how ideas move, especially from the lab to policymakers Big ideas and big missions still live or die on budgets and contracts, and this year’s request raises some important questions about executionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From cross‑agency data sharing to AI‑driven analysis, federal programs now rely on personal information in ways the Privacy Act never fully anticipated. As new APDU resources roll out this week, they aim to clarify how data actually moves, where risks emerge, and what reasonable expectations should look like today. Bethanne Barnes from the Association of Public Data Users joins me to walk through those challenges.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

While agencies talk about modernizing data practices and accelerating research, the President’s budget request reveals where execution pressure is likely to land first. From FY27 funding priorities to what Artemis II showed about how complex missions really get done, we’ll break down what matters most for agencies and contractors with Stephanie Kostro, president of the Professional Services Council.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, early‑career scientists will step up to a microphone and have three minutes to explain their research to policymakers, without jargon and with only one slide. The National Lab Research SLAM is designed to move ideas out of the lab and into federal decision‑making faster. Here to tell us what to watch as it gets underway is Antonya Sanders from Los Alamos National Laboratory.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The government paid an estimated $4.5 billion for federal employees not to work under the deferred resignation offer last year. The calculation comes from a new data report from the Partnership for Public Service. The organization’s report calculates other cost expenditures, all tied back to the Trump administration’s overhauls to the federal workforce. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Agencies have long struggled to manage so-called controlled unclassified information, or CUI. Now artificial intelligence is posing new and urgent challenges to how agencies handle, share and protect that sensitive information. But federal executives also see opportunities to use AI to modernize their approach to CUI. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton After a two‑week recess, Congress is back in Washington with a crowded spring agenda and several unfinished fights waiting on the Hill Apportionments rarely make headlines, but they play a decisive role in how Congress’s funding decisions are actually carried out. New analysis is drawing attention to patterns that warrant closer oversight Artificial intelligence may offer federal financial managers something they’ve long lacked: real visibility across programs and paymentsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Instead of another systems overhaul, a new IBM Center report zeroes in on how metadata and AI can illuminate relationships across federal financial operations. That added visibility, the research argues, could help agencies spot improper payments and fraud much earlier in the process. Here to walk us through the key insights is executive director of the IBM Center for the Business of Government, Dan Chenok.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apportionments are a core but often overlooked part of how congressional funding decisions are implemented across the executive branch. A new analysis highlights how deviations from historical or statutory patterns can create downstream risks for agencies, programs, and oversight. Breaking down what to watch for is Cerin Lindgrensavage, counsel at Protect Democracy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lawmakers return to Capitol Hill this week facing pressure to move stalled legislation, navigate internal party tensions and make progress on must‑pass items before the calendar tightens further. We’ll walk through what’s realistically at the top of Congress’s agenda now that members are back in town, with Loren Duggan from Bloomberg Government.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trump administration’s Golden Dome missile defense system could receive $17.5 billion in fiscal 2027 after it received a $23 billion down payment last summer. But almost the entire sum hinges on another reconciliation bill. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of Ed Forst’s first priorities as GSA administrator has been finishing what’s been years in the making. In his first 100 days on the job, Forst moved to implement Transactional Data Reporting across all multiple award schedule contracts. To explain what that expansion means for agencies and vendors, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

New data from Brookings shows the Greater Washington region is still losing ground on jobs, raising questions about how economic systems tied to federal work are adapting or failing to over time. The region is responding strategically, but so far, those responses haven’t translated into measurable improvement. Here to explain what’s happening beneath the surface is Tracy Loh, fellow at the Brookings Institution.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Artemis II is showing how federal education and operational experience come together in space The Washington DC metro region continues to stand out for regional job losses and new Brookings data shows the recovery still hasn’t materialized Health‑coverage decisions in retirement can shape when and how federal retirees tap their moneySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Once federal employees leave service, decisions about FEHB and Medicare quickly intersect with how they draw income from the TSP. Those choices are easier to manage when they’re coordinated rather than made in isolation. Joining us to connect the dots is federal retirement expert Tammy Flanagan, principal at RetireFederal.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Several Artemis team members bring military and academic backgrounds that reflect a long‑term federal investment in advanced education. Observers say the mission highlights how institutions like the Naval Postgraduate School translate classroom learning into real‑world mission execution. Joining us from mission control in Housing is science writer with the Naval Postgraduate School, Dan Linehan.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trump administration wants to start privatizing more airport security screening operations. The White House’s 2027 budget request would cut jobs at the Transportation Security Administration and shift much of that funding to private screening contractors . For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The federal government currently has both the largest political workforce and the lowest levels of senior career leaders in decades. A new report finds that there are now more political appointees in place under the Trump administration, than any other modern U.S. president. At the same time, senior career leadership staffing has gone down 30%. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton GSA spent more than $100 million on building studies, but an inspector general audit found the agency lacked a consistent way to track whether that work informed decisions HUD’s first‑year reset on fair‑housing guidance is reshaping how landlords, owners, and local governments navigate federal housing rules Small businesses are navigating one of the most turbulent federal contracting environments in decades and the SBA Office of Advocacy is here to helpSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy has released its first‑year report examining how small businesses are responding to rapid shifts in federal contracting and regulatory policy. The findings highlight both strain and adaptation as firms adjust to changing rules and agency practices. We’ll walk through what stood out and what comes next with Chip Bishop, Deputy Chief Counsel for Advocacy at the Small Business Administration.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

HUD’s decision to withdraw long‑standing fair housing guidance is changing how landlords, developers and local governments interpret their federal obligations, even as the underlying law remains the same. The move is raising new questions about compliance, enforcement and how much certainty housing providers can rely on as policy priorities shift. Helping us make sense of that landscape is Gwen Roy Harrison, a principal at Offit Kurman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Over a five‑year period, GSA’s Public Buildings Service obligated more than $100 million for building studies, but a new inspector general audit finds the agency lacked a consistent way to track those studies or whether their recommendations informed decisions. We’ll break down what the audit examined, what it found, and what GSA has been asked to fix with Michelle Westrup and Brian Gibson from the GSA Office of Inspector General.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Defense Department is once again facing scrutiny over how it handles sensitive but unclassified information, after a new watchdog review found that widespread problems identified years ago remain unresolved. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The General Services Administration, a former hub of activity for the Department of Government Efficiency is looking to hire hundreds of employees after facing deep workforce cuts last year. The agency’s top leader is also taking on a second job as the acting head of the National Archives and Records Administration. And for its current workforce, GSA is asking employees to provide a daily check-in on where they’re working. For a look at all of this, we’re joined by Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Federal transparency has improved on paper—but GAO says key gaps still undermine accountability and program integrity From AI to DEI to national security, congressional oversight is widening and more agencies are being asked to explain how decisions get made DOGE’s Medicaid data experiment adds a new player to healthcare fraud enforcement, the publicSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Congress may be struggling to pass legislation, but it’s not slowing down when it comes to oversight. Investigations in 2026 are moving faster, stretching wider, and pulling in companies, universities, and nonprofits that may not see themselves as obvious targets. Joining me to break down what’s driving this moment and what smart preparation really looks like is Partner at Morgan Lewis, Amanda Robinson.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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.

By releasing a sweeping Medicaid claims dataset, DOGE is testing whether broader public analysis can complement government fraud investigations. The move raises questions about accuracy, accountability and whether this approach is scalable or sustainable. I'll walk through the pros and cons with John Barry, senior counsel at Epstein Becker Green.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The departments of Justice, Veterans Affairs and Treasury are among the biggest winners when it comes to increasing their technology budgets for 2027. These and a handful of other civilian agencies are driving the Trump administration’s record $75.7 billion IT request for next year. Here with more details and analysis of the 2027 IT budget request for civilian agencies, is Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trump administration is once again pursuing deep spending cuts for federal civilian agencies, as part of its budget request for next year. Overall it’s proposing a 10% cut to nondefense discretionary spending. The White House is also doubling down on reorganization plans that Congress ignored in a comprehensive spending plans for this year. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More than 80% of U.S. critical infrastructure is owned by the private sector, putting public‑private collaboration at the center of the administration’s Cyber Strategy for America. We’ll examine what that partnership needs to look like in practice with John Miller of the Information Technology Industry Council.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton OMB’s latest IT memo echoes years of policy, but signals some important shifts agencies can’t ignore The CAS Board is carrying out a congressional mandate with comments now open The administration’s new cyber strategy bets that coordination, not regulation, drives better security outcomesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Board’s proposal implements 2026 NDAA language aimed at simplifying CAS without losing oversight. With comments due soon, agencies and contractors are weighing how the rule reshapes compliance, audits, and long‑term contract management. We'll walk through the proposed rule and what happens next, with Dan Ramish, a partner at Haynes Boone.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OMB memo M‑26‑10 revisits familiar themes around CIO authority and IT governance, but with sharper expectations for transparency, reporting, and shared responsibility. The question now is what agencies are expected to do differently and how this guidance changes day‑to‑day decision‑making for federal IT leaders. Here to walk us through the key points of the memo is former GSA Administrator and Senior Fellow at George Mason University’s Baroni Center for Government Contracting, Emily Murphy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The White House is proposing a significant military pay raise as part of its massive $1.5 trillion defense budget request. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The odds are not in federal employees’ favor for getting a pay raise next year. The White House’s budget request does not include any mention of a 2027 raise for civilian workers. That’s in contrast with a proposed raise of up to 7 percent for military members. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Another year, another GAO audit unable to certify the federal government’s financial statements. The latest report points to persistent problems that agencies and Congress have struggled to fix, despite targeted improvements in some areas. Joining us to explain what’s stuck and what could change is Dawn Simpson from GAO.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The President’s budget proposal sets the stage, but much of the action is happening elsewhere on Capitol Hill. We begin with a look at how lawmakers are handling overlapping funding challenges and what comes next with Mitchell Miller, Capitol Hill Correspondent for WTOP.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton The President’s budget landed on Capitol Hill last week, but left plenty of unanswered questions. We'll take a closer look at how Congress is navigating the budget moment Year after year, the same financial weaknesses keep showing up in the government’s books Federal government shutdowns have become routine, but their impact on public safety is anything but routineSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shutdowns are no longer rare events, and law‑enforcement leaders say that recurring uncertainty creates real risks for public safety agencies that rely on continuity and trust. The National Police Association is throwing its support behind the Eliminate Shutdowns Act as a way to break that cycle. Joining me to discuss why predictability matters so much for policing and public safety operations is Spokesperson for the National Police Association, Sergeant Betsy Brantner Smith.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trump administration is opening up more opportunities to expand hiring across government. In less than a week, the Office of Personnel Management has set up an “early-career talent network” and also launched a recruitment effort for project managers. The initiatives come after sweeping reductions to the federal workforce over the last year. Here with the latest, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A patchy federal job landscape is threatening to upend a longstanding cyber talent pipeline. Hundreds of students graduate from the CyberCorps Scholarship-for-Service program every year. But recent and soon-to-be graduates say they continue to face major challenges in finding federal job opportunities. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Rubin Observatory just turned the night sky into a live feed and the universe is far busier than anyone imagined A new ARPA‑H effort aims to change how doctors understand and treat critical illness in real timeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The launch of Rubin Observatory's alert system marks a breakthrough in astrophysics, giving scientists a real‑time stream of changes across the sky, from brightening stars to newly spotted asteroids. It’s one of the final steps before the Legacy Survey of Space and Time, which will scan the southern sky every night for a decade with unprecedented precision. Dr. Bob Blum joins us to share why this moment is so scientifically and cosmically exciting.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When patients become critically ill, their bodies often fall into a dangerous immune response loop that today’s ICU tools can’t fully see or stop. The CIRCLE program aims to give doctors a clearer roadmap by combining new sensors, faster lab insights, and digital models that predict how a patient will respond. Joining me to discuss long‑term promise for ICU care is Dr. Yoram Vodovotz, Program Manager for CIRCLE at ARPA‑H.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As Army civilians who have been identified as “surplus” begin receiving automated notices giving them a few days to decide whether to accept a reassignment, retire early or opt in for a buyout, many are making these life-altering decisions with limited information. Here with an update to her story from Monday is Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transportation Security Administration employees are seeing their first paychecks in more than a month. TSA agents are being paid this week despite lawmakers failing to come to an agreement on a Department of Homeland Security spending bill. That means thousands more DHS staff are continuing to work with out pay. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Shutdowns don’t just disrupt agencies, they disrupt household finances, and the data shows it almost immediately A large TSP balance is a success story until Required Minimum Distributions turn it into a tax problem A military family’s decades‑long journey with autism is now helping other families navigate a system that often feels impossible to manageSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal employees may eventually be made whole after a shutdown, but the timing matters. After the most recent missed paycheck, data from USAA shows requests for financial relief spiking among federal workers, highlighting short‑term cash‑flow pressures even when back pay is expected. We’ll walk through what those patterns reveal about how workers navigate fixed bills and uncertainty with Daniel Diaz, spokesperson for USAA Bank.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

April is World Autism Month, and for military families, navigating autism care often means navigating multiple systems at once. Jaime and Tracy Parent have spent more than thirty years raising an autistic child while moving through diagnoses, deployments, school changes and the maze of military and civilian support programs. Their new book, "The Mission at Home," turns that lived experience into practical guidance for families facing the same transitions and gaps in care. We’ll hear from Jaime and Tracy about what they’ve learned and what still needs to change.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal employees often retire with two advantages many Americans don’t have: a steady pension and a sizable TSP. But when Required Minimum Distributions kick in, those income streams can collide, triggering higher taxes and unexpected ripple effects. We’ll look at how that happens and why planning years ahead can change the outcome with Thiago Glieger of RMG Advisors.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More shakeup at the Treasury Department. The department is preparing for targeted layoffs at an office focused on monitoring the stability of the U.S. financial system. And over at the IRS, its IT shop is back in hiring mode. This comes after it permanently reassigned more than 1,200 IT employees to other parts of the agency. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal contractors have been required to comply with the Trump administration’s mandate to remove anything that is considered diversity, equity and inclusion for the past 15 months. But under President Donald Trump’s new executive order, signed last week, vendors face harsher penalties that could include False Claims Act lawsuits as well as possible suspension and debarment. For more on why this new order goes further than previous efforts, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me to discuss.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

U.S. Strategic Command has awarded a $500 million IDIQ contract to the University of Nebraska’s National Strategic Research Institute to support warfighter‑ready solutions. The award is structured to emphasize speed, flexibility, and direct operational relevance rather than one‑off research projects. Joining me to talk through how these funds will advance STRATCOM's mission is the Director of NSRI, Rick Evans.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton As uncertainty clouds federal research budgets, a new analysis shows how NIH funding ripples through state and local economies nationwide U.S. Strategic Command has awarded a $500 million IDIQ contract to accelerate delivery of warfighter‑ready solutions as defense needs evolve During COVID, SBA moved fast to deliver disaster loans, but GAO says limited access to IRS tax data made oversight harder and increased program riskSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When disaster loan programs scale up quickly, data sharing becomes critical. GAO says outdated systems and manual consent requirements limited SBA’s access to IRS tax data during COVID, leaving oversight gaps even as billions went out the door. Joining me to break down why that matters and where progress has been made is Director for Financial Markets and Community Investment at GAO, Courtney LaFountain.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The National Institutes of Health funding touches far more than major research institutions. A new analysis maps how those dollars support jobs and businesses nationwide. United for Medical Research’s latest report breaks down the geographic reach of that impact and why timing matters as budgets tighten. Joining us to walk through the findings is Caitlin Leach, President of United for Medical Research.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Army has been talking for many years about the concept of a single IT network. But it’s made real, measurable progress recently. The service started with 42 networks, then reduced the number to 19, and then just five over the last few years. At the same time, the Army is moving toward more software-defined networks. Leo Garciga is the Army’s chief information officer. He talked about those initiatives with Federal News Network’s Jason Miller.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Army is moving thousands of civilian employees into new roles under a sweeping “rebalancing” effort aimed at avoiding layoffs — but workers are required to accept a reassignment within days or risk separation from federal service. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the new work‑requirement mandates roll out, states are confronting a costly truth: their eligibility systems weren’t built for this level of verification. Upgrades, contractors and extra staff could push total costs past a billion dollars before a single dollar in federal savings is realized. We get the ground‑level view from AP’s David Lieb.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A new approach to the Pentagon’s long‑troubled audit effort is taking shape as fresh leadership resets expectations The administration says new Medicaid work rules will save money, but first, states will spend a lot figuring out how to make them work Contractors are playing a bigger role in TSA screening and national security AI, but that raises new questions about accountability and executionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the DHS shutdown highlights stress points in TSA operations, a long‑running federal program that relies on contractors is getting renewed attention just as agencies are also leaning more heavily on industry partners for artificial intelligence in national security. To connect those dots, I'm joined by Stephanie Kostro, President of the Professional Services Council.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After years of failed attempts, the Defense Department is refining its strategy for achieving and sustaining a clean financial audit. With new financial management leaders in place and growing scrutiny from Congress, the pressure is shifting from progress to proof. To explain what’s different this time, we’re joined by the CEO of the Society of Defense Financial Management, Rich Brady.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the conflict in the Middle East escalates following the U.S. and Israel’s launch of “major combat operations” against Iran, Defense Department employees say the demands of a new war are adding strain to an already stretched workforce. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Freedom of Information Act backlogs have been increasing across government for years. But the Trump administration’s workforce cuts have deepened challenges for already strained federal FOIA offices. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Congress is heading into the Easter recess with the Department of Homeland Security still unfunded and no clear path to a deal. The president’s move to ensure TSA agents continue getting paid may buy time, but it doesn’t resolve the broader standoff or the demands piling up behind it. Loren Duggan of Bloomberg Government joins us with the latest read on where things stand and what’s likely to move—or harden—during the break.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Both the U.S. and the EU are quietly narrowing chances for the public to weigh in on new rules and one expert says it’s time to pay attention Billions are flowing into munitions production, but there are limits to how quickly the U.S. can replenish its stockpiles They’re on recess, but DHS funding, voting rules, and overseas troop support are all waiting when Congress comes backSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

New research argues that opportunities for public comment are shrinking on both sides of the Atlantic, as governments move faster and give people less time to respond. Those shortcuts may seem efficient, but they come with real risks for transparency and the quality of policymaking. Steven Balla, co-director of the regulatory studies center at George Washington University, is here to explain the pros and cons.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ongoing U.S. operations tied to Iran are driving a rapid drawdown of munitions, putting new pressure on the defense industrial base. While billions have already been invested to expand production, questions remain about how resilient that system really is under stress. To explore what matters most right now, I’m joined by the Director, Center for the Industrial Base at CSIS, Jerry McGinn.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A federal judge ordered the Department of Veterans Affairs to restore its labor contract with its largest union. The VA says it has complied with that ruling, but documents show that it isn’t actually implementing the contract’s provisions. The case focuses on an executive order President Donald Trump signed last year barring many agencies from collective bargaining. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trump administration says it is open to hiring more federal employees, but with one big caveat. The Office of Personnel Management says that should only happen if agencies can cut down their contractor support. OPM Director Scott Kupor expanded on that idea and many of the administration’s other priorities during a House subcommittee hearing this week. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry GertonA flagship government and industry leadership program is getting a fresh start with a new class and a new vision for 2026 After last year’s deadly mid‑air collision, Reagan National’s tower is finally getting modern tools built to cut workload and reduce risk on the ground As the country approaches its 250th anniversary, a new guide asks Americans to think differently about their role in democracySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The National Urban League says many people are exhausted by political noise but still care deeply about the country’s future. Its new guide, released ahead of America’s 250th anniversary, is meant to meet people where they are and give them practical ways to engage. Joining us to explain the thinking behind it is Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The FAA’s Terminal Flight Data Manager system is now fully operational at DCA, bringing predictive tools, integrated surface displays, and a shared real‑time picture of the airfield. The goal is simple: fewer delays, stronger coordination, and a smoother experience for millions of passengers each year. We explore what travelers will notice and what comes next with Doug Lieberman, Vice President and CTO of air traffic for Leidos.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

ACT-IAC has relaunched its Partners Program with a 2026 class built for a moment when government and industry are looking for steadier leadership. The new cohort brings together senior leaders who want to deepen their impact and learn from a Pathfinder team drawn from across agencies and major contractors. We get the big-picture view of this new chapter from ACT-IAC President and CEO, Dave Wennergren.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Department of Homeland Security shutdown has now stretched for more than 40 days. And Transportation Security Administration employees say they’ve reached a breaking point. TSA call outs are leading to delays at some airports. And the agency is losing staff as it prepares for record-high levels of travel this summer. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

These days you can bet on almost everything from sports to politics to the stock market. At the Department of the Navy, PEO Digital is making big bets on technology. As part of its shift to a more lean, startup mindset, the Navy is making small investments in technologies that they hope will deliver big results. For more on how the Navy’s Program Executive Office Digital is testing and deciding on its technology bets, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller talked to Louis Koplin, the acting program executive officer for the Navy’s PEO Digital.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With U.S. markets down and volatility on the rise, war in the Middle East is adding a new layer of anxiety for TSP investors. History shows markets have reacted to past conflicts in uneven, but often surprising ways, and those lessons matter for today’s decisions. Joining me to talk through what to do, what to avoid, and how strategies differ for workers and retirees is financial planner Art Stein.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Fixing the talent pipeline doesn’t require a single sweeping reform — but it does require coordination War headlines and market volatility might rattle TSP investors—but history offers some important perspectiveSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bipartisan Policy Center's new report argues that piecemeal reforms can’t solve today’s labor and skills challenges. Instead, it calls for a shared strategy that shapes decisions across education systems, workforce programs, and employers. We’ll explore what that would mean in practice with Margaret Spellings, former Secretary of Education and current president and CEO of the Bipartisan Policy Center.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The State Department carried out widespread layoffs last summer. But it’s still scrutinizing its workforce. The Department is planning to potentially remove or reassign more Foreign Service employees who don’t meet new performance standards. This comes as the Trump administration is planning to limit the number of federal employees who can receive top marks on their annual performance reviews. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More than 350,000 federal employees left the government in 2025, whether voluntarily or by force. But some positions and agencies were more heavily targeted by the Trump administration, while others saw increases in their numbers. An in-depth analysis of data from the Office of Personnel Management reveals key details of where the federal workforce stands today. Federal News Network's Drew Friedman gets more from Drew DeSilver, a senior writer at the Pew Research Center.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton As climate pressures intensify and no federal entity owns a national water agenda, a new strategy argues the U.S. needs a water reset now, not years from now As U.S. Marines move offshore near Iran, Washington is expanding its military options without committing to boots on the ground A new center wants to turn regulatory “big ideas” into results that actually work on the groundSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new document from The Aspen Institute makes a blunt point: America’s water systems are strained by climate, growth and aging infrastructure, and the nation has no coherent plan to deal with these challenges. The report calls for a national framework to modernize infrastructure, reform governance and elevate water as a core economic issue. To find out more about what it will take to move this from proposal to action, I'm joined by Dr. Newsha Ajami, founding director of the Risk, Resilience, and Recovery program at Stanford.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When Americans hear about Marines deploying toward the Middle East, it can sound like the first step toward a ground war. In reality, these forces are often used to prevent leaders from being boxed into one. To explain what this deployment does; and doesn’t mean, I’m joined by combat veteran and national security expert, Colonel William Dunn.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The regulatory landscape around climate policy is shifting, and many agencies are left with outdated tools to manage modern risks. The Federation of American Scientists' Center for Regulatory Ingenuity hopes to give them a clearer path, offering practical guidance, partnerships and support for innovative approaches. We’ll talk through that mission with Dr. Hannah Safford, Associate Director of Climate and Environment at FAS.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal employees are reporting significantly diminished engagement in their jobs and declining views of political leadership. New survey results from the Partnership for Public Service show major drops in satisfaction and morale during 2025. That’s after a year of upheavals across the federal workforce. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s been nearly 10 months since the Trump Administration unveiled its “merit hiring” plan. And the plan has changed a bit since then, along with the administration’s overall workforce goals. Strict quotas for workforce reduction are gone, for example. And there’s a new emphasis on pooled recruitment for technical jobs. Scott Kupor is the director of the Office of Personnel Management. He shared a progress report with Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The administration is telling American diplomats to challenge foreign data‑localization laws, raising fresh concerns for firms that move data across borders. Those rules are multiplying overseas, creating real tension for companies already navigating privacy, compliance and fast‑moving AI demands. To understand the practical implications of this new approach, I'm joined by Robert Cruz, vice president for regulatory and information governance at Smarsh.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton GSA has issued its first-ever acquisition clause aimed squarely at artificial intelligence—and contractors are already warning it could be a game changer The U.S. is pushing back on foreign data‑sovereignty rules, and it could reshape how global companies handle their information As GSA prepares its next Schedule refresh, contractors are weighing how AI fits into rules that weren’t built for itSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The General Services Administration is rolling out the government’s first acquisition regulation clause written specifically for artificial intelligence systems. It sets sweeping new rules on data ownership, licensing, disclosure and who’s on the hook when AI is used in contract performance—raising red flags across the contracting community. We’ll break down what’s in the clause, who it applies to, and why industry groups are pushing back, with Dan Ramish, Partner with Haynes Boone.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We’ve been talking about what’s changing in GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule and how contractors will have to respond. The next question is how industry is reacting, especially as agencies try to buy AI through systems that weren’t designed for it. To take us there, I’m joined by Jim Carroll, CEO of the Professional Services Council.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trump administration is sending industry mixed messages when it comes to artificial intelligence. On one hand, the White House is emphasizing the use of commercial products and standards. But on the other, recent actions by DoD and GSA send the exact opposite message. For more on how the administration is causing confusion and concern in the federal market when it comes to AI, Federal News Network's executive editor Jason Miller joins me to discuss.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

President Trump’s new choice to lead the Department of Homeland Security is advancing toward Senate confirmation. Markwayne Mullin had his nomination hearing before the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee last week. In some areas, he tried to present a sharp contrast to outgoing Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins with more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Over one million people have now participated in the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Traveler-Based Genomic Surveillance. The purely voluntary program helps to detect and respond to emerging public health threats. To learn more about the scope of the program and what this milestone means, Federal News Network’s Eric White spoke with Heather Reese, who leads the TGS program at the CDC.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A strategic alliance between the Federal Laboratories Consortium and FedTech is looking to speed up how federally funded research becomes real‑world technology With travel season ramping up, the CDC just hit a record number of volunteers to help monitor any viruses on the move Practical politics—and some strategic horse trading—may be returning to CongressSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Facing pressure to act on national security and domestic priorities, lawmakers appear more willing to negotiate across issue lines. That includes DHS funding and confirmations, questions about authorizing military operations and funding them, and unresolved bills touching surveillance, housing, and financial policy. To assess whether this moment leads to real progress, we’re joined by Capitol Hill Correspondent for WTOP, Mitchell Miller.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new alliance between the FLC and FedTech is aimed at solving a long‑standing gap; connecting federally funded R&D with entrepreneurs ready to build real products and companies. The partnership promises practical support for labs, small businesses, and regional innovation ecosystems. We explore what’s ahead with Paige George of the Federal Laboratory Consortium.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Postal Service says it’s close to running out of cash and may need to cut delivery days. USPS is asking lawmakers to step in and offer some assistance. Congress passed major postal reform legislation in four years ago, but the mail agency is still seeing multi-billion dollar annual net losses. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Pentagon’s ambitious “Golden Dome” missile defense system is getting more expensive. New estimates from the Defense Department put the price tag at $185 billion; that's $10 billion more than the president originally said it would cost. But some analysts say the new estimate is no more believable than the president’s initial price tag. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The University of Texas at El Paso is strengthening its ability to test next‑generation drone and counter‑drone systems and to apply them to challenges like border security, disaster response, and infrastructure monitoring. It’s part of a growing shift where unmanned systems are becoming essential tools for agencies and communities, not just experimental platforms. We’ll explore what that means for UTEP’s future with Aerospace Center Executive Director Dr. Shery Welsh.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A mixed‑reality rollout from the Army National Guard is giving students a firsthand look at the skills and careers behind disaster response With drones now touching everything from security to agriculture, The University of Texas at El Paso is gearing up to train the people and build the technology that this new landscape demands A new “drone killer” cartridge aims to give Marines a simple, low‑cost way to stop small drones with the rifles they already carrySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As adversaries lean heavily on small drones for surveillance and strikes, U.S. forces need a response that doesn’t slow them down. Engineers focused on low cost and plug‑and‑play integration and early testing suggests they may have found it. We talk through the capability with Brian Hoffman, Man-Portable Weapons Chief Engineer at Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new program called “Disasterville” brings National Guard missions into schools through a mix of physical props and virtual reality, letting students step into the middle of a flood, wildfire, or earthquake response. It’s part of a broader effort to build awareness of the Guard’s role in disaster relief. Here to explain the effort is Staff Sergeant Adam Szabo from the National Guard Bureau.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has launched a “ruthless” review of how the military’s legal offices are organized. Experts say while there is room to streamline these offices’ operations, the review will likely be used to thin out the ranks of military lawyers. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trump administration’s new national cyber strategy is starting to translate into agency actions. But there are still a lot of questions about what comes next with the implementation of the strategy. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Traditional guardrails eroded quickly during the Trump administration’s first year, with ethics bodies sidelined and inspectors general forced out while DOGE tested the limits of its authority. The result was a federal landscape with fewer protections and less capacity just as major decisions were being made. To dig into what that means for rebuilding, I’m joined by Faith Williams of the Project on Government Oversight.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As federal workers and contractors navigate sudden disruption, Maryland leaders are focused on keeping families housed, connected, and economically mobile. Housing tied to transit and new pathways into emerging industries are central to that strategy. We'll learn more from Congressman Glenn Ivey of Maryland and Bryan Franklin, Deputy Director of LISC-DC.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton What happened inside government last year explains many of today’s gaps in capacity and accountability The message from Maryland: losing a federal job doesn’t have to mean leaving the region So many personnel policies are shifting at the same time that even seasoned federal workers are struggling to follow which changes matter most right nowSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Several weeks into the DHS shutdown, front‑line employees from TSA to the Coast Guard are working without pay as airport delays mount and families feel the strain. At the same time, the administration is accelerating major personnel changes, from Schedule Policy/Career conversions to new RIF rules that could redefine job security for tens of thousands of federal workers. We’ll connect all of those threads now with John Hatton, Staff Vice President for Policy and Programs at NARFE.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

President Donald Trump promised he would wage a “war on fraud” at his State of the Union address. Now those plans are coming into focus. A new executive order calls on nearly a dozen benefits-paying agencies to come up with ways to reduce fraudulent payments. Vice President JD Vance will lead the task force. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Agencies have a new opportunity to get help with modernizing their HR functions. A new “HR shared service center” from the Office of Personnel Management launched this week. If agencies opt into OPM’s offer, for a fee, they’ll get access to a suite of IT tools to streamline their human capital management capabilities. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton New limits on executive pay and dividends are changing expectations across the defense sector, even if the effects haven’t hit earnings yet A major reboot of the government’s small‑innovation programs is finally moving after months of uncertainty GAO finds persistent gaps and data problems in OMB’s federal program inventory, limiting its value for oversight and decision‑makingSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The administration’s new rules on executive pay, dividends and other financial tools haven’t moved defense earnings, but they’re already reshaping how companies think about future contracts. Those limits could eventually influence everything from talent pipelines to supply‑chain stability as they get written into deals over the coming year. We get the latest market signals and industry reactions from Paul Murphy of Bloomberg Government.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The federal program inventory was meant to give policymakers a clear picture of what the government does and how much it spends. GAO says that picture remains incomplete, with missing programs, outdated listings, and inconsistent data undermining confidence in the site. Here to walk through GAO’s findings and what OMB needs to fix is Dawn Locke, Director in GAO’s Strategic Issues team. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Senate has advanced a bill that would reauthorize the SBIR and STTR programs through 2031 after a long lapse, and it comes with some notable changes for small R&D firms. The package adds tougher foreign‑risk screening and introduces new “Strategic Breakthrough” Phase II awards that can reach up to $30 million. We’ll look at what those shifts mean for innovators and contracting officers with Emily Murphy, former GSA Administrator.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As soon as President Donald Trump signs the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer program reauthorization act into law, the Department of Navy will be ready. While the House still needs to do its job and pass the SBIR bill, the Navy has been using the last six months to update its program. With a sneak peak into the Navy’s plans for the future of its SBIR program, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Navy is in the middle of a year-long push to embed fifth-generation wireless technologies across its systems and installations. And the service’s 5G Integrated Product Team says it’s “making progress” on expanding network coverage. Jason Fox is the director of the 5G IPT in the Department of the Navy Office of the Chief Information Officer. He talked with Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday about that progress.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton CBO's latest assessment shows a federal outlook defined by rising costs, structural imbalances and tough choices ahead A military widow who turned her deepest loss into a decade of service is being honored with one of TAPS’ highest awards From the Strait of Hormuz to the factory floor, today’s Middle East operations are reshaping what the Pentagon asks of its contractorsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ongoing U.S. military operations in the Middle East are stretching supply chains, increasing demand for munitions and intelligence, and raising new questions about how long industry can sustain the pace without supplemental funding. Behind every deployment, contractors are providing the logistics, technology, and support that make operations possible. Joining me to break down what this moment means for industry is President of the Professional Services Council, Stephanie Kostro.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

According to the Peterson Foundation, this year’s CBO outlook lays out a budget weighed down by structural forces; from health‑care costs to an aging population that outpace the revenue coming in. It’s a forecast shaped by competing political pressures and economic realities that don’t move in the same direction. We’ll explore whether there’s any realistic path to addressing those imbalances with Brett Loper, Executive Vice President of Policy at the Peter G. Peterson Foundation.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For more than a decade, Sara Wilson has been a steady presence for families navigating military grief, from Good Grief Camps to crisis support in some of the hardest moments. Her peer‑to‑peer networks, advocacy work, and calm guidance have strengthened the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, or TAPS, community at home and abroad. She joins me ahead of receiving the Senator Ted Stevens Leadership Award at this year’s TAPS Honor Guard Gala.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Defense Department has begun taking a series of equity stakes in companies deemed critical to national security. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have questions about the new strategy. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The General Services Administration is set to lead an acquisition system consolidation across government. That’s because GSA will be designated a “quality service management office” for acquisition. For more on what that means and what comes next, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton As HHS looks to speed up AI in clinical care, the big questions are burden, trust and what comes next AI is now a competitive edge in federal capture, and small firms need to adjust fast Escalating conflict abroad is now driving debates over war powers, energy prices and the fate of key funding billsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Democrats are signaling they may force votes tied to the Iran conflict while leadership scrambles to keep DHS funding and other priorities on track. Energy interventions meant to blunt price spikes are adding new economic pressure that could reshape the legislative lineup. We’ll look at how these forces converge on Capitol Hill with Loren Duggan, Deputy News Director at Bloomberg Government.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Department of Health and Human Services asked clinicians, patients, developers and health systems how the agency should guide the use of AI in health care delivery. That feedback will shape the Department’s approach to trust, interoperability and responsible adoption. We talk through what happens next with Deputy National Coordinator for Policy at HHS, Mark Atalla.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

AI is reshaping the skills contractors need to compete. Small businesses in particular need to adjust how they use these tools inside their proposals. An intentional approach can help a proposal stand out in a crowd. We get practical guidance from Desmond Brown, former Executive Director, Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization, Department of Veterans Affairs.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After a year of workforce overhauls, the Trump administration is continuing to charge forward with major changes for federal employees. The new Schedule "Policy-slash-Career" classification is on the brink of becoming reality. Revisions to the performance management system will soon take shape. Many of these looming changes come directly from the Office of Personnel Management. At a Federal News Network event last week, reporter Drew Friedman sat down with OPM Director Scott Kupor to hear his take on some of these new policies. Here's an excerpt of that conversation.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hundreds of thousands of taxpayers are facing extended wait times to receive their tax refunds from the IRS. In the past many of them would normally receive a paper check from the agency. But the Trump administration is phasing those out in favor of electronic payments that are faster and less prone to errors. In some cases, taxpayers are now waiting months for their refunds. News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A smaller IRS staff could mean a longer wait for returns Applications are open for a program that helps Navy and Marine Corps families pay for school through grants and interest‑free loansSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Navy‑Marine Corps Relief Society has opened its 2026–27 Education Assistance Program, giving spouses and children a chance to apply for scholarships and interest‑free loans that can ease the cost of higher education. The Society supports hundreds of families each year through this program, and demand for this cycle is already building as more households look for help balancing school, service, and rising costs. We get the latest on who qualifies and how the program works from RADM (Retired) Dawn Cutler, Chief Operations Officer for the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tax season is underway, but the agency at the center of it is dealing with a shrinking workforce and the loss of tools meant to make filing easier. Those gaps are raising worries about whether the IRS can keep up, especially when it comes to customer service. For more, Federal News Network’s Eric White spoke with former Treasury Department Deputy Chief of Staff Julie Siegel.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Four of the six major programs run by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services saw their improper payment rate increase in fiscal 2025. Medicare Part C, Medicare Part D and Medicaid all saw upticks in how much money went out the door that shouldn’t have. While not all improper payments are considered fraud, CMS is planning an all out effort to reign in fraud specifically, and improper payments more broadly. For more on how CMS will take on this systemic challenge, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Homeland Security shutdown is delaying key public meetings over forthcoming cyber incident reporting regulations. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency had planned on holding the meetings this month. But much of CISA’s operations have been curtailed by the shutdown. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton DPAA’s family updates remain the heart of a mission that still spans the globe in search of answers As the situation in the Middle East worsens, Americans seeking a way out are once again turning to Congressional caseworkers — and the workload is beginning to look uncomfortably familiar Questions about pay, leave payouts, and retirement rules can catch a lot of federal employees off guardSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Some feds are seeing unexpected effects from the new special pay rate for law enforcement and from year‑end retirements that didn’t line up with when agencies process annual leave payouts. New retirees also face a set of early housekeeping steps that can make a big difference in how smoothly their benefits begin. We sort through the practical details with federal retirement expert Tammy Flanagan.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

DPAA’s mission is to account for missing service members from World War II through Vietnam, work that depends as much on scientific progress as on the trust they build with families. Their Family Member Updates have become one of the few places where relatives can hear, face‑to‑face, what’s happening in long‑standing cases. Joining us to explain why those touchpoints remain essential are Col. Derek Rankin and Mr. Tim McMahon. Col. Rankin is Chief of Staff at the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. Mr. McMahon is Armed Forces Medical Examiner System DNA Operations director.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With official guidance thin and evacuation routes uncertain, Americans overseas are flooding Congressional offices for help, recreating the same crisis‑driven scramble we saw after the fall of Kabul. Caseworkers, who were never meant to be emergency responders are again stepping into life‑and‑death situations as they try to fill gaps left by strained federal operations. We’ll dig into what’s happening on the ground with Anne Meeker, deputy director of the Popvox Foundation.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A multibillion-dollar backlog of building maintenance projects has grown too large for the federal government’s landlord to effectively manage. That’s according to a board that advises the General Services Administration on buildings it should sell or dispose of. The board recommends a “radical reduction” of buildings GSA owns. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman join us with more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Army is beginning to use a promotion authority Congress approved in 2018 that could give some officers more flexibility in how they move through the ranks. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis gives us an update.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A sudden change to how VA evaluates disabilities triggered immediate backlash from veterans and their advocates The Army is about to open its first operational makerspace in Europe, a new hub where soldiers can turn ideas into real solutions for the mission Amid mounting warnings that Iran or its proxies could strike back, GAO says HHS isn’t fully aligned internally on the public‑health preparedness programs states rely on mostSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The 21st Theater Sustainment Command. cuts the ribbon March 13 on its Innovation Lab at Kaiserslautern, Germany, built to help Soldiers tackle problems closest to the mission. The lab ties frontline needs to Army Development Command’s ability to prototype and test new concepts. We look at what Soldiers can build, how ideas move through the pipeline, and what success looks like in year one with Major Ron White, Chief Innovation Officer of the Army's 21st TSC. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The heightened threat environment has put a spotlight on federal readiness, but a new GAP review shows HHS still lacks formal mechanisms to coordinate its two major preparedness programs. Those gaps matter when states face overlapping health hazards from outbreaks to extreme weather to hostile‑actor disruptions. GAO’s Mary Denigan‑Macauley joins us with the details.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

By bypassing notice‑and‑comment and issuing an interim final rule, VA shocked groups that normally get a heads‑up on major policy shifts. Veterans responded with near‑universal concern about how treatment‑controlled symptoms would be judged. We hear why the response was so sharp from Carl Blake, CEO of the Paralyzed Veterans of America. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trump administration is out with a new national cyber strategy. The administration’s focus is on making cyber adversaries pay for trying to hack into government networks or critical infrastructure. But there are a lot of familiar themes from past cyber strategies as well. To break it all down, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Errors and inconsistencies in a public list of political appointees are raising concerns over the data’s reliability. A new analysis of the so-called “PLUM” book, from the Government Accountability Office, finds that the list of federal executives does not contain all data required by statute. It’s also missing key information across several agencies and senior-level positions. Here with the details, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It will hopefully never happen to you, but what if you're taken hostage and therefore unable to file a tax return? It's probably one of the last things on your mind during a traumatic experience, so the IRS does have a plan in place to make sure a victim doesn't face any unfair consequences from their ordeal. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration recently took a look at those protocols. To learn what they found, Federal News Network's Eric White spoke to one of the auditors who conducted the review at TIGTA, John Da Cruz.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Defense Department says it has officially notified Anthropic that the company and its products are deemed a supply‑chain risk, a move that could require defense vendors to certify they aren’t using Claude in DoD work. The designation stems from a breakdown over AI guardrails and the Pentagon’s insistence on “all lawful purposes,” raising questions about the scope of the Department’s authority and how a challenge would play out. We’ll sort the law from the headlines and what contractors need to do now with Zach Prince, partner at Haynes Boone.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton As debates sharpen over military use of AI, the Aerospace Industries Association is outlining a path for agentic systems in defense The Pentagon’s “supply‑chain risk” label for Anthropic now forces a legal and operational reckoning across the defense industrial base What does the IRS do if someone is kidnapped and not able to pay taxes?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

AIA says agentic AI could unlock faster, more adaptive decisions across the defense industrial base, but only if agencies and contractors address risks and real‑world friction. The conversation is unfolding as policymakers debate how military AI should be governed and what limits are necessary. Tim White, Vice President of Engineering and Technology at the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), is with me to outline the path ahead.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal cybersecurity leaders say they’re looking to artificial intelligence to help thwart cyber adversaries who are increasingly using AI themselves. Gharun Lacy is the deputy assistant secretary of state for cyber and technology within the State Department’s Bureau of Diplomatic Security. And Joseph Aguayo is the deputy chief information security officer at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. They talked with Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday. Lacy speaks first.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Army is overhauling its direct commissioning program as it tries to bring more civilian tech experts into uniform. Service officials say the program will “completely upskill” Army organizations over time. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis is here with an update. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Experts say the next month could bring disruptive cyber activity from Iran and its aligned groups, and they’re urging organizations to shore up defenses now. The concerns center on the likelihood of targeted operations against the sectors with the highest visibility and the weakest points of entry. We'll examine what the threat picture looks like—and how leaders can harden their operations quickly—with James Turgal, VP of global cyber risk at Optiv.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton U.S. organizations should prepare for potential retaliation in the cyber domain as tensions with Iran escalate NIH sets up camp near one of the worst environmental disasters ever A stalled DHS funding fight at home and rising tensions abroad are pushing Congress into another week of high‑stakes maneuveringSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Three years after a freight train carrying hazardous chemicals derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, residents are still worried about the health risks from the controlled burns that sent toxins into the air. Now, the National Institutes of Health has set up a new research office on the ground to monitor those impacts. Federal News Network’s Eric White spoke with the person running that effort, Dr. Ashlinn Quinn, to find out how it's going.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Leadership changes sparked by DHS Secretary Noem’s departure and Oklahoma Senator Mullin’s potential role have stirred new political drama but provided no path forward on the Department of Homeland Security’s funding freeze. Add to that a Congress increasingly split over war‑powers resolutions and the path to any Middle East supplemental, and the next few months look anything but predictable. We connect the political and procedural dots with Mitchell Miller of WTOP.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Agencies may soon make their layoff decisions based on performance, rather than tenure. A new proposal from the Trump administration seeks to reverse agencies’ current order of operations when deciding who to remove, or retain, in a reduction-in-force. Here with the latest, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The last 12 months have been tough for small business government contractors, to say the least.There is increased scrutiny on not just the 8(a) program, but on all small business set-aside contracts. The Small Business Innovation Research Program has been on pause since October. And then there was the longest-ever government shutdown that delayed work and contract awards. But it’s all not bad news as there is now some light at the end of the SBIR tunnel. For more on how small businesses can navigate this tough time, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller caught up with Kim Reidy, the director of the Office of Small Business Programs for the Naval Information Warfare Systems Command and Shadi Azoum. the program manager of the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs also at NAVWAR, at the West conference in San Diego.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal workers and military families are navigating one of the most complex tax seasons in recent memory. New rules on overtime, car‑loan interest, and Social Security are changing how many households will file. Here to break down the changes and what they mean in practice is Mike Meese, president of Armed Forces Mutual.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OPM says the creation of Schedule Policy/Career aims to increase accountability, but it may instead introduce new vulnerabilities for federal researchers. Critics warn that the change could affect not only scientific judgment today but the long‑term pipeline of expertise inside government. Peter Bonner from the Federation of American Scientists joins me now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton The Schedule Policy/Career rule raises alarms about the independence of federal science New rules implementing the Administrative False Claims Act could expand how federal agencies pursue smaller fraud cases This year’s tax rules introduce new benefits and new confusion for federal workers and the militarySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Civilian Board of Contract Appeals has issued new procedural rules to implement the Administrative False Claims Act, a revamped law that gives federal agencies greater ability to pursue smaller fraud cases involving government contracts. The changes could expand enforcement tools and raise new compliance considerations for contractors doing business with the federal government. To help unpack what the new rules mean and how companies should prepare, Federal News Network's Eric White spoke with Dan Ramish, Counsel at Haynes Boone.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Top Department of Homeland Security officials could be deposed in a lawsuit challenging staff cuts at the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The case centers on whether DHS is allowed to enact major workforce reductions at FEMA. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Department of the Navy is conducting a departmentwide organizational review that could lead to significant restructuring of its civilian workforce and reductions in civilian personnel. The review is part of a broader Defense Department effort to reshape its civilian workforce and align personnel and resources with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s priorities under the National Defense Strategy. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau less active and running with fewer resources, many states no longer get the data they need to finish their own consumer protection cases. A new multistate lawsuit aims to restore the bureau’s full funding. We wanted to understand what that means for states like Maryland, so Federal News Network's Eric White spoke with Bill Meeks, Director of the Lending and Finance Unit in the Consumer Protection Division for Maryland’s Attorney General.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A massive reinvestment push is reshaping military housing, aiming to fix the hazards families have lived with for years AI systems are only as safe as the environments where they’re trained and tested — a point now hitting home across DoD and the federal government With CFPB weakened, states are fighting to regain the data and support they need to protect consumersSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Before an AI agent can support a mission, teams need to know how it handles uncertainty, manipulation, and unexpected inputs. That requires sandboxes built for evaluation rather than production. We talk through what that entails with AI red‑team specialist Bri Frost, Director of Product Management at Cloud Range.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Across hundreds of military communities, the housing system is finally confronting aging infrastructure and the reliability gaps that affect daily life for families. The work happening now is a real‑world test of how policy decisions and oversight translate into improvements at scale. We get an inside look at how those choices are made and measured from Brian Stann, CEO of Hunt Military Communities.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trump administration’s drive to create one human capital management system for all of government is running into the unfortunate realities of government contracting. Two new protests are putting the Office of Management and Budget’s aggressive timeline to fully transition every major agency to this consolidated modernized system by July 4, 2027 at risk. For an update on the administration's HR IT modernization program, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The General Services Administration has updated its contractor cybersecurity requirements. The standards are similar to the Pentagon’s Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program. But there are also some key differences in GSA’s standards that are causing consternation in industry. For more, Federal Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Two very different cyber cases — a DFARS‑driven settlement and a criminal indictment involving FedRAMP misrepresentations; are giving contractors a preview of DOJ’s posture for 2026. Both point to a more aggressive and more varied enforcement landscape. We’re talking through what that means with Andrew Liebler and Lance Taubin of Alston & Bird.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The president has proposed a historic $1.5 trillion defense budget for fiscal year 2027. But with the possibility of divided government after the midterms and the risk of another yearlong continuing resolution, that funding boost could stall before it ever reaches the Pentagon. There may be another route for the White House to go though, the budget reconciliation process. To find out how that could work, Federal News Network' Eric White spoke with John Ferrari, non-resident scholar with the American Enterprise Institute.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Two December cases show DOJ is shifting its cyber enforcement into higher gear The administration’s biggest defense request yet may depend on a budget maneuver to survive the next Congress GAO says the Space Development Agency’s timeline for missile-warning satellites may be outpacing realitySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

GAO says the Space Development Agency is at risk of falling behind on missile-warning capability because of technology readiness gaps and schedule planning weaknesses. The report also warns that users don’t have enough transparency into how requirements are set, and DOD still lacks a reliable life‑cycle cost estimate. We'll walk through the detail's with GAO’s Jon Ludwigson.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hundreds of former USAID employees and their supporters gathered in downtown Washington, D.C., last week. Their rally marked exactly one year since the agency shuttered, and thousands of staff members were escorted out of their offices. At the rally, former employees called out impacts of the Trump administration’s dismantling of USAID, while also considering their path forward. Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman was there.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal agencies are releasing their new use case inventories for artificial intelligence. Across the government, there now are more than 2,500 AI use cases, an increase of more than 800 since last year. And with the rise of agentic AI, agencies are positioning themselves to drive toward more automation and efficiencies. Kelly Fletcher is the chief information officer for the State Department. And Kris Saling is the chief technology advisor for the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Manpower and Reserve Affairs. They talked about the state of their AI rollouts with Federal News Network’s Jason Miller. Fletcher leads off this excerpt from the discussion.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up on the Federal Drive with Terry GertonFrom poll‑worker shortages to new federal proposals, 2026 could test election systemsA once‑gutted government tech program is coming back to life as OPM prepares to hire its first TechForce cohortDoD’s move against Anthropic and its plan to deploy all FY 2026 funding at once could reset the market for federal contractorsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Election offices are heading into 2026 with real pressure on staffing, administration, and public confidence. New proposals at the federal level could add to the workload as local officials prepare for a complex election cycle. We break down the biggest challenges with Donald Palmer, Chairman of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The federal market now faces a double shock: an abrupt supply‑chain risk ruling against a major AI vendor and a funding plan that concentrates four years’ worth of spending into one. Both will shape how primes and subs manage risk, inventory their tools, and pursue new work in 2026. We break down the implications with Stephanie Kostro, President of the Professional Services Council.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A remnant of DOGE is about to get a new life under the Trump administration. OPM plans to issue its first TechForce job offers this week, as the agency wraps up reviews for software engineers and data scientists who would serve two‑ to four‑year tours on modernization projects. To find out how this effort will work — and how it differs from past attempts to bring more technologists into government —Federal News Network’s Eric White spoke with Lauren Chambers, a Ph.D candidate at the UC Berkeley School of Information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Natural disasters at military installations have caused billions of dollars in damage over the past decade, but the Defense Department began tracking those costs just recently. That data, however, remains incomplete and at times inaccurate. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Kristy Williams, director of defense capabilities and management at the Government Accountability Office, about the Pentagon’s efforts to improve natural disaster cost tracking.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The acting director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency for the past 10 months is out. Madhu Gottu-mukkala was transferred to another position at the Department of Homeland Security last week. His departure comes amid deep uncertainty at the cyber defense agency. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton EPA’s State Revolving Funds move billions into water infrastructure; an internal audit says the agency isn’t accurately tracking how that money is spent New data may change what we know about staffing, stability and capacity on Capitol Hill Congress is as busy as ever and DHS is still not fundedSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Behind every hearing, bill, and negotiation are staff whose careers have never been consistently tracked. A new dataset brings order to that picture and gives Congress and the public a clearer sense of its workforce. The architect of the HillClimbers Index is Omar Awan, and he joins me now to show how this new visibility can guide decisions on staff size, compensation, and day‑to‑day operations.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

According to the OIG, EPA regions underreported improper and unknown payments in the SRF program by tens of millions of dollars, driven by documentation gaps and incomplete reporting. The findings point to weaknesses in the agency’s largest funding stream and the controls meant to protect it. We walk through the implications with Devon Padula from the EPA Office of Inspector General.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Congress is busy as ever. Hearings, the State of the Union, potentially major legislation, and oh yea, the Department of Homeland Security is still not funded. I got an update on what is top of mind on Capitol Hill right now from Loren Duggan, Deputy News Director for Bloomberg Government.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Agriculture Department is selling one of its headquarters buildings, as part of an ongoing agency reorganization. USDA is putting its South Building near the National Mall over to the General Services Administration, which plans to put it on the market. Senior officials say the building is underutilized and faces a billion-dollar maintenance backlog. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Marine Corps has a readiness problem. Only about 45% to 50% of its amphibious groups have the ability to be forward deployed. For more on how the Marines are working with the Navy to achieve a readiness rate of 80%, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller sat down with Lieutenant General Jay Bargeron, the deputy commandant for plans, policies and operations for the Marine Corps, at the recent WEST conference in San Diego, California.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A year after the midair collision near Reagan National, the NTSB's findings raise fresh questions about the safety gaps that allowed it to happen Could there be a way to make economic sanctions more mission oriented?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of the main tools foreign policy leaders have to exert pressure on other governments is through the use of economic tools. Sanctions, export controls, investment restrictions, and financial measures have been used with much more frequency rather than more invasive methods. But has their recurring use made it more difficult to lose sight of their main purpose in the first place? I recently spoke to Lt. Col. Mary Hossier, Department of the Air Force senior military fellow at the Center for a New American Security, who makes the case that a more doctrinal approach, such as those used by the military, may help keep the main goals in sight.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Families have filed suit alleging the 2025 crash was both foreseeable and preventable, as investigators detailed long‑standing risks in the capital’s most sensitive airspace. With urgent NTSB recommendations on the table and renewed scrutiny of how DCA’s flight corridor is managed, we look at what should have happened at every step to prevent a tragedy like this and what should happen next with aviation attorney Timothy Loranger.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

An overhaul of the government’s performance management system is coming down the pipeline. New proposed regulations from the Office of Personnel Management would change the annual review process for virtually the entire federal workforce. That includes a plan to limit how many federal employees can be ranked as so called “high performers.” Here with more is Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

An expunged record at the state level may not be enough to qualify for military service. A federal appeals court says the service branches can enforce stricter enlistment standards than those set by the Defense Department, and don’t have to honor state expungements when evaluating potential recruits. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke to Ira Rushing, associate with Tully Rinckey PLLC, about how the court’s decision could impact current service members or potential recruits.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton As AI transforms the workforce, a new report finds veterans may have an edge, and the data shows exactly which career paths offer the strongest long‑term payoff A record‑shattering year for False Claims Act recoveries is forcing a sharper look at where the money flows and why DOJ’s enforcement firepower keeps circling back to healthcare How to make sure your nest egg is thrivingSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You've got the money, you'd like it to continue to grow throughout your retirement, where should you put it? It's an age old question that you get a different answer to depending on who and when you ask it. I certainly don't know the answer, so let's talk to someone who does. Certified financial planner Art Stein joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Using exclusive retention data, Redeployable and Hire Heroes USA tracked where veterans actually stay and grow in the civilian workforce, even as AI reshapes entire industries. Their analysis spotlights six fields with strong job growth, high veteran staying power, and low automation risk — a combination that signals long‑term stability. We’ll break down why these fields stand out and what the research means for veterans making career decisions right now with Ben Read and Charlotte Creech. Ben is the Co-Founder and CEO of Redeployable and Charlotte is Chief Program Officer at Hire Heroes USA.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The government brought in an all‑time high of $6.8 billion in False Claims Act recoveries last year, with healthcare driving most of the action. DOJ is zeroing in on managed care billing, drug‑pricing tactics, and medical‑device safety — and it’s adding discrimination in hiring and pay as a new area of focus. We’ll unpack what that means for companies and why enforcement keeps following the money with Kate Seikaly (CYCLE-y) of Reed Smith.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Defense Department’s much-delayed background investigation system is years behind schedule and billions over budget. DoD officials say they have a plan to finally deliver the system in the coming years. But lawmakers are concerned about more schedule slips and a lack of permanent leadership to oversee the program. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Education Department is handing off more work to other federal agencies, as part of plans to dismantle its operations. It’s sharing some of its duties with the departments of State Department and the Department of Health and Human Services. Education transferred some of its employees to the Labor Department last year. But so far, no employees have been detailed to State or HHS. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your final day of working can approach fast once you have it set. At least, that's what I've been told. The changes however can be even more rapid after you do retire. So what can you expect your first few months of not having to punch the clock every day? We welcome Private Wealth Adviser with RMG Advisors Thiago Glieger.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

GAO reviewed how agencies work with Tribes to share decisions on natural and cultural resources and found that while these agreements can provide meaningful, long‑term participation, they’re built unevenly from agency to agency. Some agencies have the legal authority to create deeper partnerships, while others, including the Forest Service and NOAA’s marine sanctuaries don’t, limiting Tribal influence over similar lands and waters. We’ll explore what it will take to close those gaps with GAO’s Anna Maria Ortiz.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A check-in with the office in charge of running the Capitol building What to expect in the first months of your retirement Tribes are gaining long‑term roles in managing natural and cultural resources, but GAO says those agreements could be far more consistent and far more effectiveSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With 2026 underway, we thought we'd check in with office in charge of running the Capitol, the building that is. It's been over 230 years since George Washington laid the cornerstone for the building, and obviously it's come a long way. To find out what's in store for the future, Federal Drive host Terry Gerton talked to the one person who best knows that answer, Architect of the Capitol Thomas Austin.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Two decades ago, NASA Administrator Michael Griffin said the space agency has become too dependent on outside contractors, hollowing out some of the skills the agency needs in-house to oversee and evaluate programs. Similar concerns rose to the top when NASA kicked off its Vision 2040 project in 2018. Now it’s NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman’s turn to pave over this well-known ground. In this week’s federal report, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller writes about why this latest attempt to refocus and reinvigorate NASA’s workforce may be different. Jason joins me now to discuss.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With the threat of a shutdown gone for most of the government at least, contractors can now shift their focus to some eventful business opportunities. For one thing, NASA is going through a transformation. Plus the upcoming FIFA World Cup could present some interesting opportunities. For more on that, we welcome Jim Carroll, CEO of the Professional Services Council.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton For victims, a quick stop at an ATM or gas station can turn into wiped‑out accounts and days of financial chaos after a skimmer steals their card data If you think an old tax issue is behind you, the IRS may be about to prove otherwise With shutdown threats mostly behind them, contractors focus on eventful opportunitiesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With enforcement ramping up and penalties increasing, the Voluntary Disclosure Program is becoming the safest way to resolve past tax mistakes before they turn into something bigger. We’ll walk through the risks, red flags, and first steps with Valerie Makarewicz and Tino Lisella, Partners at Carlton Fields.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Card‑skimming is no longer a local nuisance; it’s become a coordinated, multi‑state fraud pipeline built on speed, technology and volume. The Secret Service is tracing how these crews operate, and partnerships with banks and local police are helping shut them down. We’ll look at the scope of the threat and the impact on victims with Secret Service Special Agent Michael Peck.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The National Institutes of Health continued to lean into the use of artificial intelligence last year. The NIH has now initiated more than 100 AI pilots over the last few years. Those efforts ramped up as the health agency also navigated staffing cuts and other turmoil in 20-25. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

House Democrats are pressing Bureau of Prisons leaders on their plans to address long-time staffing shortages. For years, low staffing at BOP has contributed to operational issues and unsafe conditions across the federal prison system. A letter sent Friday to BOP’s Director says the workforce issues have reached a “crisis point.” Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton The BIOSECURE Act is coming, and no contractor is as “biotech‑free” as they think Congress.gov is gearing up for another round of user research after a revealing set of interviews late last year A new Supreme Court ruling has upended the President’s global tariff plan just as Congress faces fresh pressure to avert a partial shutdown at Homeland SecuritySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new federal law is about to require contractors to map their supply chains, vet their vendors, and prove they’re not relying on banned biotech companies. Many firms will discover exposure they didn’t know they had. We’ll explain what’s at stake with Alex Major, Partner and Co‑Chair of the Government Contracts & Global Trade Practice at McCarter & English.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After completing interviews with congressional and public users in November and December, the Congress.gov team is preparing for a new research phase this spring. The insights from last year’s sessions are guiding the next steps in modernizing the user experience. I'll explore the takeaways and what’s ahead with Chief of the Design Division, OCIO, at the Library of Congress, Kristin Davis.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Supreme Court’s decision striking down the administration’s tariff framework landed in the middle of a crowded stretch on Capitol Hill, where talks to end the DHS partial shutdown have turned to carving agencies out for standalone funding. Lawmakers are also weighing everything from reconciliation plans to aviation safety and the latest FISA fight. We break down what to watch in the days ahead with WTOP’s Capitol Hill Correspondent, Mitchell Miller.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Transportation Department is pushing back against the old adage, “if it ain’t broke, why fix it?” Instead, DOT is looking at all of its technology systems and infrastructure and asking how they can drive better outcomes, particularly through modernization. For more on how Transportation is modernizing many of its legacy systems, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller caught up with Pavan Pidugu, the chief digital and information officer at the Department of Transportation, to learn more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of the key highlights of the Defense Department’s recent memo on multi-factor authentication for unclassified and secret networks is the clarification that DoD Public Key Infrastructure — not the common access card itself — is the department’s primary authenticator. Previous policies would often go back and forth between describing the CAC or PKI as DoD’s primary credential, creating confusion. Plus, the memo finally introduces passwordless authentication methods designed to give service members faster, more flexible access to systems. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Alex Antrim and Adam Oliver, senior solutions engineers at Yubico..See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

DOJ’s first antitrust whistleblower reward signals a more aggressive approach to rooting out market‑allocation and procurement‑related fraud, especially in digital marketplaces. With employees now financially incentivized to report before companies self‑disclose, the competitive landscape for leniency has shifted. We explore how enforcement is changing with Ann O’Brien, partner at Shepherd and Co-Leader of the firm's Antitrust and Competition Practice Group.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OMB’s new memo rescinds the Biden‑era requirements and shifts software and hardware security to an agency‑driven, risk‑based model. SBOMs and attestations move from “must” to “may.” That means CIOs and CISOs can tailor what they ask for from vendors, but they’ll also carry the burden of proving those choices keep mission systems safe. We’ll dig into what this change unlocks and where it could create blind spots with Jean‑Paul Bergeaux, Federal CTO at GuidePoint Security.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton The White House has scrapped the one‑size‑fits‑all SBOM mandate and told agency leaders to own their cyber risk. Now flexibility meets accountability The government’s first $1 million antitrust whistleblower award could reshape how companies think about risk... and about their own employees A new Executive Order aims to rethink how the nation tackles addiction, shifting from treatment alone to a broader, community‑anchored approach to recoverySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The White House’s new Great American Recovery Initiative reframes addiction as a chronic disease that needs steady support, not just clinical services — a shift meant to close the gap between how many Americans struggle with substance use and how few receive help. It calls for stronger coordination across government, healthcare, and communities to make recovery more accessible, more connected, and more rooted in real life. We’ll dig into what that means on the ground with Melissa Sosinski, host of Empathy Affect podcast, who’s spent years talking with leaders and people with lived experience about what recovery really looks like.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Postal Service typically sees its best financial results in the first quarter of each fiscal year. That’s because of the year-end holiday season and sometimes a surge in political mail. But USPS is starting this fiscal year with a $1.3 billion net loss. It posted a rare net profit for the same period last year. The American Postal Workers Union says USPS should focus on affordable services and improved service to win back customers. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman spoke with APWU President Jonathan Smith. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Over the last several weeks, lawmakers have been examining several bills that would affect federal employees in different ways. The House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, in particular, recently advanced legislation that may bring changes to federal benefits and hiring practices. Joining me with a review of these bills is Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With Gene Dodaro’s 15‑year term closed out and Orice Williams Brown serving in an acting capacity, Congress and the administration now face a high‑stakes selection governed by one of the most bipartisan appointment processes in government. The next leader must balance independence, expertise and credibility to keep GAO’s work above politics. POGO’s Janice Luong joins us to break down what comes next.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry GertonMajor shifts across climate, labor, immigration and other key policy areas made 2025 a year of rapid regulatory changeThe search for the next Comptroller General is turning into a mystery — no one knows when the process will even begin It’s starting to feel like Census Groundhog Day ... the same warning signs from 2020 are showing up again for 2030See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A presidential handoff at noon on January 20 triggered an abrupt reversal across federal policymaking, with agencies shifting from one set of priorities to another almost instantaneously. That whiplash was intensified by a surge of midnight rules on the way out and rapid reversals on the way in, as well as a renewed push by President Trump to expand executive authority. We’ll walk through how that turbulence is reshaping regulation with Finn Dobkin and Matias Vesperoni of the George Washington University Regulatory Studies Center. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Census Project says the warning signs are back, calling the path to 2030 a “Census Groundhog Day” moment that echoes the troubles of 2020. From lagging timelines to unresolved operational risks, the report suggests the bureau is once again running out of runway. Steve Jost and Howard Feinberg join us to explain what’s at stake. Steve is Senior Advisor for Avoq, and a consultant to The Census Project. Howard is Senior VP for Advocacy at the Insights Association and co-director of the Census Project.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Department of Homeland Security is in shutdown mode, but most DHS employees are continuing to work through the lapse in appropriations. Many DHS personnel will also have to work without pay until the White House and lawmakers negotiate a funding deal. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins meSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Defense Department has locked itself into another decadeslong lease this time for privatized military barracks, expanding a housing model that has posed significant challenges for military family housing for decades. A Senate lawmaker now warns that the 50 year agreement will limit the Pentagon’s ability to change contract terms and hold private companies accountable for inadequate living conditions. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

GAO reports that millions of residents still receive severe‑weather alerts only in English, and that the National Weather Service’s AI translation initiative risks stalling without better planning and stronger coordination. Technical constraints, resource shortages, and policy barriers are slowing progress nationwide. We look at what GAO recommends and how agencies can close trust‑eroding gaps with Cardell Johnson, Director, Natural Resources and Environment at GAO.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A year into the job, the VA secretary reflects on what he’s learned, what he’s changing, and what he hopes to tackle next For feds and retirees, uncertainty is creeping in as customer‑service problems and new personnel rules raise fresh questions about stability and fairness in the systemWhen severe weather hits, alerts only save lives if people can understand them, and GAO says millions still can’tSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OPM’s customer‑service struggles are coming at the same time the agency is rewriting policies that affect job security and appeals. We’ll unpack what it all means for people counting on a stable, fair system with John Hatton, staff vice president for policy and programs at NARFE.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Secretary Doug Collins is a year into his tenure at the VA. He joins me now for a look back at what he learned over the past year and how those lessons informed his plan to reorganize the Veterans Health Administration. We'll also examine how VA is making progress in benefits eligibility decisions and payments. He'll lay out what’s changing and why. and what he hopes to accomplish in the year ahead. Here's my conversation with Secretary Collins.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Data from the Department of Veterans Affairs shows it cut health care hiring times by more half. The Trump administration directed agencies to speed up time-to-hire governmentwide. But a closer look at the VA’s data shows that it’s using different metrics than it’s used in the past. For a closer look at the numbers … Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trump administration is telling agencies to proceed with terminating their collective bargaining agreements if they haven't already a new advisory from the Office of Personnel Management follows two executive orders last year that directed most agencies to cancel their union contracts. That's despite ongoing litigation against the president's orders here with the latest is Federal News Network's Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry GertonA new congressional caucus is stepping up to defend the federal workforce at a critical moment Fiscal uncertainty and payment delays are putting new pressure on contractors working across DHS and State The DHS partial shutdown is stretching on, and this week’s negotiations are taking place with Congress out of townSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The standoff over DHS funding is now shaping operations across the department, the next round of negotiations, and the political backdrop for the State of the Union later this month. The SAVE Act moves to the Senate and the President touts an executive order. We sort out what’s moving and what’s not with Loren Duggan, Deputy News Director at Bloomberg Government.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Contractors supporting DHS are navigating a mix of shifting reviews, uneven funding streams, and slow reimbursements for work already completed. Those delays are now rippling through companies that don’t get upfront payments and rely on predictable cash flow to keep projects moving. We break down what’s driving the bottlenecks and who’s feeling it most with Stephanie Kostro, Executive Vice President for Policy at the Professional Services Council.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After a year of deep disruptions to the career civil service, lawmakers have created a bicameral caucus to defend federal workers and modernize the systems they rely on. Its goals range from protecting nonpartisan public service to improving pay, retention, and professional development. One of the leaders behind the effort is Rep. James Walkinshaw of Virginia. He joins me now to walk through the strategy and goals for the new caucus.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's President's Day, and today on the 'Best of' The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton we look back at some of our discussions highlighting important research on federal management issues. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Naval Information Warfare Systems Command stood up a new cyber directorate last August to take a more comprehensive approach to cybersecurity across the enterprise. The office is zeroing in on three priorities: speeding up zero‑trust adoption, strengthening secure software practices and bringing cutting‑edge defensive technologies into the fight. For more on why Navwar created the directorate and where it’s headed, Federal News Network’s Jason Miller spoke with Rachel Bondi, the deputy director for the cyber innovation unit and CTO for mission systems afloat, at the West Conference in San Diego.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The full impact of continuing resolutions is hard to pin down for the Defense Department, but a government watchdog says the funding lapses consistently lead to delays, higher costs, added administrative work and operational disruptions — including a facilities sustainment contract at Joint Base San Antonio that more than doubled after CR‑related delays. They also disrupted training and exercises and forced financial staff to rework budgets to navigate CR limits instead of supporting the mission. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Rashmi Agarwal, a director on the Government Accountability Office’s defense capabilities and management team.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A renovation job at Fort Meade turned into a dispute over delays, badges, background checks, and ultimately, whether the government can be held responsible for acting like… well, the government In 2026, law‑enforcement hiring isn’t a staffing challenge. It’s a risk‑management challenge hiding inside a staffing challengeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As law enforcement agencies at every level scale up recruiting, legacy background tools can’t track officer movement or surface red flags early enough to matter. Joining me to explain why those gaps show up first in hiring, and what a modern, shared digital platform would let agencies see that they can’t see today is the Founder of Guardian Alliance Technologies, Justin Biedinger.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Armed Services Board rejected Meltech’s multimillion‑dollar claim, ruling that Fort Meade’s updated security rules were sovereign acts, the kind the government issues for everyone, not targeted at a single contract. And even if they weren’t, the record showed plenty of unforced errors by the contractor. Today, we walk through the case, the doctrine at its core, and the practical lessons for contractors working behind the gate with Partner at Haynes Boone, Zach Prince.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Department of the Navy is putting the finishing touches on a new AI strategy. Officials say it’s a direct response to lessons learned from recent conflicts and the increasing speed at which adversaries are able to adapt their tactics and technologies. The strategy has undergone two rounds of review, and it’s expected to be signed soon by the Secretary of the Navy. As Federal News Network’s Jared Serbu reports, officials say they’re trying to build on the Navy’s own operational experience, and on and best practices from industry.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Central Intelligence Agency is lifting the veil on some acquisition reform priorities. Earlier this week, the CIA announced a new acquisition framework that focuses on speed and innovation. The agency says it wants to better harness cutting edge commercial technologies. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new review shows Department of Veterans Affairs clinicians are using AI tools for documentation and decision support, but there’s no system in place to detect mistakes or respond to risks. Without better oversight, the technology could unintentionally affect patient diagnoses and care. Here to explain the warning and what needs to happen next is the VA's Inspector General, Cheryl Mason.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Geton A new IG audit finds DoD isn’t fully tracking F‑35 contractor performance, raising questions about oversight on the Pentagon’s costliest program VA rolled out new AI tools quickly, but without a system to catch mistakes, patient safety is on the lineFederal employees have new rules, new documents, and new timelines to keep an eye on this yearSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Accessing the right tax forms, tracking changes to 2026 pay and TSP contribution limits, and navigating the retirement backlog are all hitting federal employees at once. We’ll walk through what’s new, what’s changing, and what to expect as the year unfolds. Joining me is federal benefits expert Tammy Flanagan.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The F‑35 is the Pentagon’s most expensive weapons program, and the Department relies on contractors to keep it performing as promised. But a new DoD Inspector General audit says the Department isn’t consistently tracking or documenting that performance, leaving gaps that affect cost, schedule, and readiness. We'll look at what the auditors found and what DoD is doing about it with Chris DePerro, Supervisory Auditor, Program Director, Department of Defense Office of the Inspector General.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In just a few weeks, tens of thousands of career federal employees could lose their civil service protections. Positions that get converted to the new Schedule Policy/Career will no longer have the ability to appeal an adverse action or termination. But additional guidance is out, showing some other benefits employees might lose if they are reclassified. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The IRS is notifying back-office employees that they will temporarily cover frontline filing season work through this summer. Training for these detailed employees will begin nearly a month after the start of this year’s tax filing season. The agency’s taxpayer service division lost a significant number of employees last year. The IRS also fell short of its hiring goals this season. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

New research from Brookings shows that rural counties with stronger access to post offices have more small‑business activity, even when broadband and other factors are the same. That suggests the postal network is doing far more economic heavy lifting than policymakers assume. We’ll dig into the findings with Elena Patel, co-director of the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center and a senior fellow in the Economic Studies Program at the Brookings Institution. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A medical breakthrough that sounds like science fiction is on the horizon: printing organs that could match any patient, on demand When we look at USPS only through a profit lens, we miss the economic engine sitting in plain sight A system meant to reduce prison recidivism can’t do its job if the inputs are wrongSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

GAO found the Bureau of Prisons struggling with timely assessments and unreliable program data, making it harder to know whether incarcerated people are getting the programming the First Step Act requires. Add in delays applying earned time credits, and the whole recidivism‑reduction strategy wobbles. GAO’s Gretta Goodwin joins me to talk about the risks and the fixes.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For patients waiting on transplants, the gap between supply and need has always been measured in lives. ARPA‑H’s new program aims to close that gap entirely by pursuing bioprinted organs that don’t require a donor and don’t trigger rejection. It’s a bold bet on what medicine could look like next, and we'll explore the details with the Program Manager of the PRINT program, Ryan Spitler.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trump administration’s newly finalized “Schedule F” policy is making big headlines. But there are also several other significant changes coming for the federal workforce. Three recent proposals look to give the Office of Personnel Management more authority, something that could bring significant changes for employees. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Next week, the Army plans to debut what’s meant to be a “generational” change in the way it provides food to soldiers. At Fort Hood, Texas, the service plans to launch its new “campus style” dining concept, a model that could eventually replace legacy dining facilities around the world. But to do it at just one installation, the Army had to overcome some significant bureaucratic and acquisition hurdles. If it’s successful, the service will need to figure out how to remove those hurdles entirely. Details from Federal News Network’s Jared Serbu.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal employees spend decades learning how to save, but far less time learning how to draw those savings down safely. From balancing pension, Social Security, and TSP withdrawals to avoiding early‑retirement missteps, distribution planning is its own discipline. We break down how to build a reliable monthly paycheck in retirement with Thiago Glieger of RMG Advisors.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The landscape of government buying is shifting, with one agency already showing real savings after moving to a new government‑wide cloud purchasing approach. At the same time, the collapse of a major technology contract vehicle is sending agencies and vendors looking for new paths forward. And as small‑business rules get a closer look, many firms are discovering requirements they didn’t realize applied to them. We’ll break down what all of this means with former GSA Administrator, Emily Murphy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton After a tough year for federal employees, how do leaders still on the job keep their teams motivated and moving toward better performance? Turning a lifetime of savings into a steady retirement paycheck takes more than a rule of thumb The rules of federal buying are being rewritten, and everyone is feeling the shiftSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dave Lebryk has spent a career leading teams through calm and crisis across the federal government. Now, after stepping away from public service, he’s watching former colleagues shoulder one of the toughest years in recent memory. We’ll tap into his perspective on how leaders still on the job keep themselves grounded, keep their teams motivated, and keep pushing for better performance even when the system is strained.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Department of Veterans Affairs is looking to get the rollout of a new multi-billion-dollar Electronic Health Record back on track, after pausing the project for three years. The VA is planning for its new EHR from Oracle-Cerner to go live at 13 sites in 2026. It'll start with four sites in Michigan in April. Unlike previous deployments, the upcoming go-lives to take place in waves. Since 2023 the project has been on pause while the VA addressed outages and productivity declines at sites that adopted the new EHR. For a closer look at this project, Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman spoke with VA’s Deputy Secretary Paul Lawrence. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trump administration is preparing to roll out several major cybersecurity policy updates in the coming weeks and months. At the top of the list is a new national cybersecurity strategy. But there are several other cyber developments worth watching. For more on that, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new paper argues that the real action inside multimember commissions isn’t in public votes or partisan balance; it’s in the internal mechanics that shape every regulatory outcome. Here to unpack how these bodies actually function, why their design matters more than ever, and what’s at stake as legal and political pressures mount is assistant professor of law in the Robinson College of Business at Georgia State University, Todd Phillips.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry GertonA new Pentagon‑funded study is testing whether autonomous oxygen therapy can take lifesaving care out of a medic’s hands and put it into an intelligent system, changing how patients are treated in the most dangerous and remote environmentsWashington talks a lot about regulations—but rarely about how the regulators themselves operateA pivotal week for Congress as the clock runs down on DHS funding and lawmakers look for a path out of another shutdown fightSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With just five days left before the DHS continuing resolution runs out, lawmakers are weighing a mix of short‑term fixes and longer‑shot options to keep the department open. Those talks are unfolding alongside a crowded agenda that includes the SAVE Act, questions about crypto and banking, and the launch of a new Federal Workforce Caucus. We’ll also look at what upcoming oversight hearings could mean for the funding debate with WTOP Capitol Hill correspondent Mitchell Miller.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Defense Department is backing a new study to see whether an autonomous oxygen system can help medics deliver safer, more precise care in the field. The University of Colorado Anschutz team will test the O2matic technology in real prehospital settings to see if it can lighten medics’ workload, conserve oxygen, and improve survival in both military and civilian emergencies.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A fiscal watchdog group says the Trump administration’s Golden Dome missile defense initiative could cost as much as $3.6 trillion over the next 20 years, far exceeding the White House’s projected $175 billion. The group also argues the effort faces “insurmountable” technical hurdles and that it is likely that Golden Dome will simply not work. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Gabe Murphy, policy analyst at Taxpayers for Common Sense.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tens of thousands of career federal employees will soon be made easier to fire. That's after Office of Personnel Management issued a final rule on “Schedule Policy/Career.” Once fully implemented, the new employment classification will exempt many employees from long-standing job protections. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton AI is stepping directly into America’s scientific engine room as OpenAI expands its work with the Department of Energy Technical debt puts federal cybersecurity at risk. The question now is how to break out of the cycleBehind DoD’s contract review is a bigger question: how far can enforcement go without undercutting small‑business programs themselves?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aging network infrastructure is consuming maintenance dollars that should be funding modern, secure architectures, especially as agencies try to integrate AI. It’s a spiral that deepens cyber risk and delays progress. We’ll look at options for getting out of that cul‑de‑sac with Cisco’s Senior Director for Technology Policy, Eric Wenger.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Small business set‑asides are mandated by statute, anchored in the rule of two, and central to competition in the defense industrial base. The Secretary’s memo adds new tests for mission necessity, subcontracting compliance, and market pricing — all under compressed deadlines. Here to explain what this could mean for contractors across every socioeconomic category is partner at Haynes Boone, Dan Ramish.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OpenAI’s new agreement with the Department of Energy marks a shift from pilot projects to full‑scale collaboration inside the national labs. The partnership aims to speed up scientific discovery across all domains by putting AI models into real research workflows. Here to walk through how that integration works, and what it means for the next phase of scientific progress, is Global head of innovation policy at OpenAI, James Hairston.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The long-journey of getting agencies to adopt shared services for back office functions like financial management or human resources has quietly made real progress over the last decade. But a new report by the Government Accountability Office shows agencies have yet to solve some of the long-standing challenges to adopting shared services. For more on what GAO found and where shared services is heading next, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Army has launched a service-wide survey of all existing contracts to determine where limited access to technical data is hindering soldiers’ ability to maintain and repair their own equipment. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the nation prepares to mark America’s 250th birthday, the National Archives is taking some of its most treasured records on the road. It's also unveiled a newly renovated flagship exhibition, giving visitors an immersive, high-tech look at 250 years of U.S. history. To learn about these endeavors and other activities slated for the occasion, Federal News Network's Eric White spoke with Grace McCaffrey, Acting Executive of External Affairs and Communications at NARA.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Patent reform is back on the table, and a leading Senator says the stakes for American innovation couldn’t be higherYou can't properly celebrate America's 250th birthday without the artifacts that created itSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lawmakers pushing for new rules say uncertainty in U.S. patent eligibility is putting innovators at risk and giving global competitors room to run. The proposal would clarify what can be patented, streamline coordination between federal agencies, and open the door for clearer pathways to generics. I'll explore the ideas driving the reform effort with one of the bill's sponsors, Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A short-term partial government shutdown is over after House lawmakers have reached a deal to fund much of the federal government. A majority of agencies now have funding through the end of the fiscal year. That’s except for the Department of Homeland Security. It’s under a two-week stopgap spending bill, buying lawmakers more time to negotiate additional guardrails on federal immigration operations. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trump administration has withdrawn the United States from the Open Government Partnership, an international initiative the U.S. helped create nearly 15 years ago. Administration officials say the OGP was ineffective and waste of money. But critics of the move say it’s another example of the Trump administration backsliding on transparency and accountability. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After early cuts at HHS and USAID translated into thousands of lost jobs and hundreds of millions in foregone wages, Maryland officials wanted a sharper view of what was happening. The result is a new modeling tool that lets policymakers see the impact of federal spending shifts at the county and agency level. Joining us to explain how it works is Ben Siegel, Deputy Comptroller of Maryland for Policy.See the dashboard here: https://www.rhsmith.umd.edu/news/maryland-comptroller-and-smith-school-release-federal-spending-scenarios-and-dashboardSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Thousands of Maryland jobs and millions in wages are tied to federal decisions. A new tool makes those consequences visible Emerging technologies are quickly becoming the backbone of national power ... but most leaders still aren’t trained to understand them Are federal programs doing enough to stop fraud before it happens?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Krach Institute is throwing open the doors to its Tech Diplomacy Academy, aiming to train leaders worldwide on the technologies reshaping security and freedom. We'll dig into why tech diplomacy has become essential, and how free societies can stay ahead as the stakes rise with the CEO of the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue, Michelle Giuda.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

GAO found major gaps in anti-fraud practices across grants, contracts, and loans. Only one program of five examined met all nine leading safeguards. Hannah Padilla, Director, Financial Management and Assurance at GAO, explains where agencies must act first to strengthen oversight.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Department of Veterans Affairs is looking to shift more of its health care workforce to facilities facing a growing veteran population. That’s the latest from the VA’s long-awaited agency reorganization. That also means drawing down staffing levels in places where the veteran population is shrinking. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Air Force has quietly eliminated all in-person and virtual hearings for Special Access Program (SAP) appeals, replacing them with a paper-only process. It's still unclear whether the Air Force will allow individuals to submit written responses instead of a personal appearance. It is also possible that decisions will rely entirely on existing security files, with no opportunity for individuals to respond, which would be a loss of due process. For more. Federal News Network's Anastasia Obis spoke with Dan Meyer, partner at Tully Rinckey PLLC..See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Big changes are finally reshaping how the Pentagon buys and innovates, and the next wave of reform is already underway If you care about America’s innovation pipeline, you need to understand what’s happening to Bayh‑Dole and the small businesses it was built to support New guidance from GSA is carrying forward last year’s push to rein in consulting contracts, roll out the FAR overhaul, and put real pressure on value‑added resellersSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

GSA is moving quickly on multiple fronts from refreshing its major GWACs to gathering fresh data from VARs—signaling a continued shift toward tighter oversight of how agencies buy services and technology. At the same time, Treasury’s cancellation of its Booz Allen Hamilton contracts has raised new questions about how far that scrutiny will go across the government. We’ll sort out the implications for agencies and contractors with the president of the Professional Services Council, Stephanie Kostro.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Research shows Bayh‑Dole has fueled thousands of inventions, patents and startups, but disruptions like SBIR’s expiration and 8(a)’s turmoil are testing the system. Jere Glover and Joe Allen are here to explain how those shocks ripple into federal R&D, commercialization and long‑term competitiveness. Jere Glover serves as the Executive Director of the Small Business Technology Council. Joe Allen is Executive Director of the Bayh-Dole Coalition.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The 2026 NDAA marks one of the most significant shifts in defense acquisition in more than a decade, from reshaping how the Pentagon buys to opening new paths for commercial innovation. It also sets the stage for DoD’s next round of ecosystem reforms, with lawmakers already at work on the 2027 bill. We’ll break down what’s really changing and what it means for industry with former Pentagon official Stephanie Barna.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A coalition of unions and nonprofits is challenging cuts to staff at the Federal Emergency Management Agency. In a new lawsuit, they allege the workforce reductions violate laws that restrict the Department of Homeland Security from making sweeping changes at FEMA. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For more than 30 years, Washington has churned out idea after idea to boost federal agency performance. We’ve seen everything from the Clinton administration’s Reinventing Government push, to the Bush administration’s PART reviews, to the Government Performance and Results Act. Now, a group of former senior federal executives, calling themselves We the Doers, say there’s a better way, drawing on more than 88 years of combined service. For a look at what they’re proposing, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller spoke with Maureen Klovers and April Harding, the group’s co-founders.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Boards are reassessing governance and risk as a new executive order broadens what counts as defense‑contractor underperformance A standout year for the TSP, from a foreign‑stock surge to a long‑awaited bond rebound, is giving investors plenty to build on for 2026 Congress may have sorted out most of its spending drama over the weekend, but the final stretch of the 2026 appropriations process is far from simpleSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After a chaotic stretch on Capitol Hill, Congress seems to have settled most of the remaining 2026 funding fights. But even with the dust clearing, the path forward on the final bills still isn’t entirely locked in. Here to break down what the House will tackle this week and what the split over DHS funding could mean for the agencies caught in the middle is deputy news director for bloomberg government, Loren Duggan.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new executive order is putting fresh pressure on defense companies to show they’re investing and performing the way the government expects. The broad language means boards may have to rethink how they manage delivery, oversight, and capital decisions across the whole enterprise. We get into what leaders should be doing now with Chris Griesedieck, partner at Venable.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The TSP’s performance in 2025 ended on a much stronger note than anyone expected after a rough start to the year. International stocks pulled ahead, bonds finally delivered meaningful gains, and U.S. markets stayed lofty despite all the noise. We’ll look at what mattered, what didn’t, and what comes next with financial planner Art Stein.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Trump administration’s effort to cap the fees charged by value‑added resellers appears to be slowing down. The General Services Administration has put out a new request for information, and that pause is giving some vendors relief that the agency is taking more time to understand the market. For more on what the RFI signals and how industry is reacting, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After a year of talks with industry on how to improve the program, FedRAMP is turning inward. Leaders of the government’s cloud security assessment program say they’re increasing their engagements with federal agencies and the Office of Management and Budget as they continue to work toward a faster, less costly version of the program, called “FedRAMP 20 X.” But they say they’ve already made significant improvements, and with a smaller budget. Here's Federal News Network's Jared Serbu with the details.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Can automation in government coexist with transparency and public trust? Founding Fathers with a little extra bounce, a new bobblehead set marks America’s 250thSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new limited‑edition bobblehead set is celebrating America’s 250th in a fun, historic way. It turns the Declaration of Independence into a collectible featuring key Founding Fathers. We’re talking about the idea behind it with Phil Sklar, co‑founder and CEO of the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

AI promises speed, but efficiency isn’t democracy’s goal. Michael Livermore, Professor of Law and Co-Director of the LawTech Center at the University of Virginia, explains why ignoring that tension could reshape governance in troubling ways.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After spending five years and tens of millions of dollars developing a new travel management system, the Defense Department abruptly scrapped the effort in 2023 and reverted to the legacy Defense Travel System it was meant to replace. A government watchdog looked into why the program failed and how the Pentagon can avoid repeating the same mistakes. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Vijay D'Souza, Director of GAO’s Information Technology and Cybersecurity.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The IRS says it’s ready for this year’s filing season which began on Monday. But the agency faces a slew of challenges. A looming government shutdown would limit its ability to serve taxpayers. The agency also missed several key hiring goal for the filing season and is scaling back expectations for how many calls from taxpayers it will answer. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From pandemics to AI disruption, foresight helps agencies anticipate what’s next. But a new report finds that capability is shrinking fast across the federal government. Here to share what’s behind the trend and what’s at stake are Kara Cunzeman and Robin Champ. They are co-founders, along with Suzette Brooks-Masters, of the Federal Foresight Advocacy Alliance (FFAA)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Facing mounting energy threats, the Pentagon is betting on industry partnerships to build resilience fast When government stops looking ahead, the risks multiply. A new survey shows foresight is fading fast 2026 could bring more than budget battles for federal employeesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Executive orders on energy dominance are reshaping defense priorities. We’ll explore how public-private partnerships, federal land leasing and emerging tech like microgrids can strengthen military energy resilience, with Tom Holm, Executive Director of the Energy Defense Council.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Beyond funding debates, federal workers are facing big shifts in how performance is measured and retirement claims are processed. From Schedule Policy/Career implementation to tackling a growing retirement backlog at OPM, we’ll explore what’s changing and what it means with John Hatton of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE).See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The hits keep coming for federal consulting contractors. First, the Trump administration questioned the value of these types of contracts, leading to a significant reduction in existing deals and the slow down of awards of new solicitations. Now the Treasury Department is taking aim specifically at one of the biggest vendors. Treasury cancelled all 31 of its contracts with Booz Allen Hamilton. For more on why Treasury is taking these actions and what it means for the consulting market more broadly, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The homeland security spending bill is now at the heart of Congress’s latest shutdown fight. And that bill would solidify cuts made by the Trump administration to three Department of Homeland Security oversight offices. For more, Federal News network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A recent report from GAO finds widespread structural and safety issues in public libraries, with 61% reporting health hazards and most struggling to fund repairs. David Marroni, Director, Physical Infrastructure, GAO explains what’s driving the problem and what solutions are on the table.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A sweeping vision for a bigger Navy is running head‑first into the hard realities of the shipyards expected to build it Your local library may be a polling place, an emergency hub...and a building in crisisSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Long before anyone talks about a “golden fleet,” the starting point matters and today’s shipbuilding base is running well below the level political rhetoric implies. Capacity is strained, delivery timelines keep slipping, and shifting requirements make it even harder for industry to plan or invest. We’ll map the gap between ambition and what’s actually achievable with Seamus Daniels, a Fellow in Defense Budget Analysis at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Department of Veterans Affairs is officially lifting a hiring freeze on its health care workforce after shedding tens of thousands of positions last year. But the VA which saw its first-ever workforce net decrease is unlikely to hire its way to a higher headcount than what is currently has. Senate Democrats say VA facilities are still facing strict staffing caps as the department moves ahead with its reorganization. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman is here with more details.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Change the Air Foundation recently found that nearly 97% of service members reported at least one significant problem in their military-provided home — with mold, mildew and water damage cited most frequently. Now, a bipartisan group of lawmakers is pushing for meaningful protections for military families, including holding private military housing companies financially responsible for the health and safety of the homes they lease on military bases. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A closer look at what Congress protected in the FY 2026 Commerce, Justice, and Science bill and how lawmakers plan to hold agencies accountable for how that funding is used On the eve of a major public‑service award, a look at why integrity, courage, and principled leadership still define excellence in government The Defense Department is taking a closer look at 8(a) contracts, and reshaping how innovation is managedSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Defense Department is sending two clear signals to the contracting community this month: it’s reviewing large 8(a) contracts, and it’s reshaping how innovation moves through the Pentagon. We’ll walk through what’s under review, what’s changing in the innovation ecosystem, and what industry should be paying attention to right now with Jim Carroll, CEO of the Professional Services Council.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tomorrow night, the National Academy of Public Administration will present the Elliot L. Richardson Prize for Excellence in Public Service, an award rooted in a legacy of integrity and constitutional courage. Ahead of the ceremony, we’re talking about why Richardson’s example still matters, what the prize is meant to honor, and why this year’s recipients, Janet Yellen and Gary Locke, reflect that standard of service. Joining us is James‑Christian Blockwood, President and CEO of the National Academy of Public Administration.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Congress has cleared the FY 2026 Commerce, Justice, and Science appropriations bill, rejecting proposed cuts to major science and research agencies and adding new oversight requirements on how federal funds are spent. We’ll talk about what that funding signals about congressional priorities, how it affects agencies like NASA, NOAA, and NIST, and why oversight has become a central focus as agencies move to execute their budgets. Joining us is Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With House spending bills finished, the spotlight turns to what Congress tackles next from health care funding and ACA subsidies, to renewed crypto legislation, and early plans for a sweeping 2026 reconciliation package aimed at lowering costs. Sorting through those priorities and what they mean for the months ahead is Mitchell Miller, congressional and health policy reporter.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Governmentwide, agencies saw a loss of about 320,000 federal employees over the course of 2025. As he marked one year in office, President Trump called those cuts to the federal workforce “tremendous.” But good government groups are painting a much darker picture of what’s to come. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The economics of drone operations are about to change. One operator supervising ten autonomous aircraft could redefine cost and margin for delivery and inspection. That future hinges on Part 108, a proposed FAA/TSA rule that moves what are currently waiver-only experiments to a national standard. Here to break down the implications is James McDanolds, Program Chair at Sonoran Desert Institute’s School of Uncrewed Technology.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A sweeping audit could reshape the 8(a) program and federal contractors are bracing for what comes next The drone economy is about to take off fast. A $355B market and a new rule could make Drones-as-a-Service the next big thing With House spending bills done, focus turns to the Senate where work is expected to wrap up this week, ahead of the January 30th deadlineSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The SBA, Pentagon, and Treasury are running simultaneous audits of the 8(a) program, each targeting different risks but all aimed at restoring integrity to a system the administration says has been widely misused. The scale of the oversight is something the contracting community hasn’t seen before. We'll explore what ties these reviews together and what contractors might expect with Emily Murphy, senior Fellow at the George Mason University Baroni Center for Government Contracting and a Former GSA Administrator.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For government oversight and accountability officials, 2025 was a year of deep change and uncertainty. President Donald Trump fired inspectors general, removed the heads of independent agencies, and sought to reduce the level of internal oversight within government. But members of the oversight community say their job is more important than ever as they prepare for challenges both near and long term. Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday reports.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Department of Veterans Affairs is getting ready to award what’s likely to become one of the biggest service contracts in government history, possibly a trillion dollars over the next decade. It’s the follow-on contract vehicle for the private sector health care services VA started paying for under the MISSION Act. Officials say it’ll bring more rigorous management to the department’s role as a health care payer. But members of Congress have questions — and say they were left in the dark about the contract, right up until the moment VA issued the RFP last month. Details from Federal News Network’s Jared Serbu. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton An interesting case at the Court of Federal Claims could shape future energy savings performance contracts An organization's new name signals a broader mission to support both Airmen and Guardians FedRAMP is getting faster, new automation and pilots promise approvals in months, not yearsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With FedRAMP 20x and the 2026 Phase 2 pilot, the government is moving toward automation, machine-readable evidence, and collaborative monitoring. We’ll explore what these changes mean for SaaS providers and how companies can cut costs and timelines without sacrificing security with Irina Denisenko, CEO of Knox Systems.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

While Congress is largely backing the Defense Department’s efforts to overhaul its acquisition system, lawmakers are pushing back on some of the Pentagon’s reform requests. They are also concerned that the department's workforce cuts will cripple its ability to implement the reform agenda. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After more than 80 years as the Air Force Aid Society, the nonprofit is rebranding as the Air & Space Forces Aid Society to reflect its commitment to both communities. Here to explain the change, what it means for military families, and how the organization is meeting urgent needs is the CEO of AFAS, Retired Air Force Major General Ed Thomas .See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A case before the Court of Federal Claims highlights how shifting requirements in an ESPC project sparked a costly dispute and what it could mean going forward.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Office of Personnel Management is out with more details on how agencies should implement the new “rule of many.” It’s a recruitment technique that changes how hiring managers rank and select job candidates. The Trump administration says the “rule of many” will streamline and improve the hiring process. But implementation also depends on agencies’ resources and how willing they are to change their approach. Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman gets more from vice president of government affairs at the Partnership for Public Service, Jenny Mattingley.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Congressional appropriators are one step closer to reaching a comprehensive spending deal for the rest of the fiscal year before a stopgap spending bill expires at the end of the month. They’ve released the final four spending bills needed to fully fund the federal government. The bill spares many agencies from deep budget cuts. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman joins us with more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton IRS CI posts a record year: $10.6 B in financial crimes uncovered and cyber seizures soaring—a big year for tax fraud enforcement Quiet firings with big consequences...why the lack of transparency when relieving military leaders matters Market data shows surprising winners and losers among top federal contractors after a year of turmoilSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Abrupt removals of top military leaders are happening with little explanation, raising alarms about accountability and readiness. Virginia Burger from the Project on Government Oversight is here to break down the findings and the path forward.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A volatile year across the federal marketplace produced results few expected, with some major contractors posting strong gains while others slipped under the weight of delays and cancellations. New analysis shows how shifting defense priorities, executive‑order signals and program setbacks reshaped the landscape for investors. We break down the biggest surprises and what they signal for 2026 with Paul Murphy, senior contracts analyst with Bloomberg Government.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

IRS Criminal Investigation closed FY 2025 with $10.59  billion in identified financial crimes and a 60% surge in seized digital data. Justin Campbell, Acting Deputy Chief, IRS Criminal Investigation, is here to explain what fueled this record-breaking year and how CI is preparing for the next wave of financial crime.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

States are racing to regulate AI, creating a patchwork that Kevin Frazier warns could stifle innovation. Now, a sweeping executive order asserts federal preemption and launches a litigation task force to challenge state laws. Frazier joins us to unpack the constitutional stakes and whether Congress will finally step in.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton A new year brings new opportunities. Where should contractors focus in 2026? With a new executive order clearing the path for federal AI standards, the question now is whether Congress will finish the jobGAO warns disaster readiness gaps could leave communities exposed when the next storm hitsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transportation Security Administration employees will continue to have a union after a new court ruling. That’s because a federal judge blocked TSA’s latest attempt to dissolve a 2024 collective bargaining agreement that covers some 47,000 airport screeners. Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me with more on the case and what comes next.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

GAO’s latest high-risk report flags uneven preparedness across states and localities, despite billions in FEMA grants and expanded training programs. We’ll explore what drives these disparities, how performance is measured and the implications of a bigger local role in future disasters, with Christopher Currie, Director, Homeland Security and Justice 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.

The 8(a) small business contracting program is coming under the microscope of its biggest user. The Defense Department is joining a growing list of agencies auditing the use of sole source contracts through the 8(a) program. For more on what DoD’s decision to launch the audit means for the future of the 40-year-old program, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Deltek’s latest analysis highlights the top federal programs and sectors poised for growth. Here to share what’s on the horizon and how contractors can position for success is Senior Vice President of Information Solutions at Deltek, Kevin Plexico.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's no secret that the Department of Homeland Security has big goals when it comes to law enforcement recruiting. But DHS’s inconsistent hiring practices could trip up the department’s ambitious targets. That’s according to a new report from DHS’s inspector general. For more on the findings, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Defense Department has long tried to simplify and reform the reserve duty status system, which has become too complex and has created pay and benefits inequities. Lawmakers are now pushing to streamline the system. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up today on "The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Government CIOs are racing to deploy AI for better digital experiences, but citizens say security and transparency matter moreA fresh push for industrial capacity is taking center stage in the administration’s “Arsenal of Freedom” tourFrom ACA subsidies to a stalled crypto overhaul, lawmakers are juggling more than spending deadlines this weekSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Digital government depends on trust, yet a Gartner survey shows citizens want control over their data and clarity on how it’s used. From lifecycle protection to transparency dashboards, federal agencies face a mandate to rebuild confidence while accelerating transformation. Here to outline the priorities is Gartner Senior Director Analyst, Mike Shevlin.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With just days left before the January 31st deadline, Congress has passed some key 2026 funding bills—but the biggest and most contentious ones are still waiting. Lawmakers are also wrestling with ACA subsidy talks, a crypto bill that keeps slipping off the calendar and new tensions with Europe over Greenland. For the full picture, we turn to Loren Duggan, Deputy News Director for Bloomberg Government.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Pete Hegseth’s visit to Lockheed Martin’s F‑35 facility spotlighted themes like mission readiness, manufacturing scale and at‑home production of critical capabilities. But he's walking a tightrope between encouraging industrial partners and tightening oversight through a new executive order. We'll walk through the challenges with Stephanie Kostro, President of the Professional Services Council.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Polygraphs remain a gatekeeper for sensitive roles at agencies like CISA and DoD, but a recent failure involving CISA’s acting director has sparked debate. Are these tests reliable, and what safeguards exist against misuse? Joining us to examine the controversy is Dan Meyer, Equity Partner at Tully Rinckey PLLC.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's Martin Luther King Day, and today on The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton we’re sharing with you some of our recent stories on security issues. We’ll hear from… William Turton on reports FBI Director Kash Patel granted polygraph waivers to Dep. Dir. Bongino and two senior aides.Dan Meyer on the use of polygraphs for sensitive roles at agencies like CISA and DoD, and what safeguards exist against misuse.Carl Ghattas will help us understand the complexity of planning security operations for mega events like the upcoming world cup.Frank Rosenblatt on the process for determining whether military orders are lawful or not. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More than half of the Social Security Administration’s frontline employees are earning less than what’s necessary to afford a basic standard of living in their communities. That’s according to a new report by Strategic Organizing Center, a research partner for the American Federation of Government Employees. SSA employees say that amid workforce challenges the agency is unable to keep up with the needs of beneficiaries. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.