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.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton National service is struggling to connect with younger Americans, the problem may be both the message and the messengerNew tech could shield warfighters from one of the deadliest threats on the battlefield: gamma radiationSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The National Strategic Research Institute has launched a year-long study to identify breakthrough solutions for radiation protection, ranging from advanced nanocomposite shielding to medical countermeasures. The effort could pave the way for next-generation gear, including an entirely new protective suit, according to Director, Medical Countermeasures, National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, Dr. Terry Thiem.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Research from Fors Marsh shows recruiting challenges go beyond eligibility to issues of perception and influence. From military campaigns to civilian programs, agencies need new strategies to make service resonate with a generation that expects speed, clarity and authenticity. Dr. Brian Griepentrog, president of Research and Advisory Services at Fors Marsh, is here to share what works and what doesn’t.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 doesn’t have reliable data on the number of civilian employees eligible to telework or work remotely. That is according to the Government Accountability Office. The watchdog also found the department has never evaluated the impact of those programs on the department’s goals such as recruitment and retention. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Alissa Czyz, Director in the defense capabilities and management team at GAO.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 a full year since the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has had a Senate-confirmed director. Cyber experts say the leadership void is preventing CISA from moving forward on key cybersecurity issues. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday is here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new USPS OIG audit finds millions of square feet sitting idle or underutilized, raising questions about cost, efficiency and missed opportunities. From consolidation hurdles to creative reuse, the report outlines why this matters and what options are on the table. Joshua Bartzen, Audit Director at the U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General, is here to share the 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.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Resilient supply chains start with knowing what really matters, and what doesn’t Underused space across USPS facilities could be a hidden drag on modernization and budgets Authorized investigations shouldn’t mean unpredictability, why transparency and clear deadlines matter for agency fairnessSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new Brookings Institution report warns that U.S. readiness hinges on a sharper definition of the national security industrial base. Michael O’Hanlon joins me now to explain why, without clear criteria, policymakers risk misallocating resources and leaving critical sectors exposed.Read the report here: https://www.brookings.edu/articles/building-greater-resilience-and-capacity-in-the-us-national-security-industrial-base/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Agencies are authorized to conduct enforcement investigations, but opaque and unpredictable processes can undermine accountability and trust. Here to outline practical steps agencies can take to improve transparency, set clear timelines, and balance openness with confidentiality is Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Associate Professor of Law at George Washington University, Aram Gavoor.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lawmakers on Capitol Hill are getting closer to reaching a comprehensive spending package for the rest of fiscal 2026. In the latest step, House and Senate appropriations reached a deal on a new set of spending bills covering financial services, foreign affairs and national security. The spending plan spares the IRS and the State Department from major cuts and calls on speeding up the disposal of excess federal real estate. 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.

Clearer numbers on the federal workforce are coming into view. That’s with the Office of Personnel Management’s major update to one of its largest data assets, FedScope. The now renamed “federal workforce data” website aims to deliver information faster, and with more frequent updates. 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.

GAO reviewed CMS’s distribution of 1,000 new Medicare-funded residency positions and found urban hospitals dominating while rural facilities face steep barriers. Here to explain what’s behind the pattern and what changes could help balance geography and specialties before the program ends is Leslie Gordon, Director for Medicare 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 More than 100 former DOJ civil rights attorneys say the division meant to protect vulnerable communities is being dismantledA recent VA audit finds major gaps in homeless screening follow-up that put some veterans at risk of falling through the cracksWho’s getting Medicare-funded residency slots, and why equity still lagsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A December 9th letter signed by over 100 former Justice Department civil rights lawyers warns that the Division is “under attack,” citing actions that undermine enforcement and erode judicial independence. Here to explain what’s at stake and what it means for everyday Americans, is Paul Kiesel, attorney and founder of Speak Up for Justice.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new Veterans Affairs Inspector General audit shows 61% of veterans flagged for homelessness at VistA sites didn’t get proper follow-up, exposing systemic weaknesses in the referral processes. Here to explain what went wrong, the risks for veterans and how the VA can fix it is Steve Bracci, a Deputy Assistant Inspector General for the Office of Audits and Evaluations at VA OIG.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The nation’s newest military service still has a lot of work to do to chart its future. The Space Force had been planning to use a new “Futures Command” to handle that work, and it was supposed to be up and running by last year. That didn’t happen as scheduled. But the idea’s not dead either. Leaders say they’re still planning a new organization to help shape the service’s future, but they also needed to make sure it aligns with the new administration’s priorities. Details now 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.

If you’ve spent anytime on LinkedIn over the last month, you may have seen what seems to be a constant stream of executives leaving federal service. Whether they are retiring, took the deferred resignation program or just through normal attrition, the exodus of federal executives feels more acute than ever before. In the federal report this week, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller takes a deep dive into the data and offers federal executives who recently left some advice to find success in the private sector. Jason 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.

Behind every health policy and intervention is data, but some of that data may soon be gone. A new analysis warns of cascading effects on research, programs and health equity, unless action is taken now. Joel Gurin, President and Founder of The Center for Open Data Enterprise is here to explain what’s at stake and what might be done.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 data behind America’s health decisions is starting to disappear, with potentially serious consequencesAir quality data may not tell the whole story, and that could put communities at riskLawmakers Push for VA Mental Health Reform as Congress convenesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Innovative Therapies Centers of Excellence Act aims to give the VA dedicated capacity to research emerging treatments for PTSD and other invisible wounds. We’ll hear from Representatives Lou Correa from California and Jack Bergman from Michigan, the lawmakers behind the push, and what it means for veterans and families.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Environmental Protection Agency may be relying on air quality data that underreports pollution. Biased data can mean declaring areas clean when they’re not. A recent report from the agency's IG warns that gaps in EPA oversight could expose communities to harmful pollution. Assistant Inspector General Paul Bergstrand is here to explain 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.

The IRS is weeks away from the start of a busier-than-usual filing season. But a group of senators is warning that the agency may be stretched too thin to respond to taxpayers’ needs. The agency lost about a quarter of its workforce last year and is embarking on a major shakeup of its IT 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.

Federal Emergency Management Agency started off the new year by not renewing appointments for 50 disaster management staff. That cut is sparking concerns about potential FEMA plans for deeper staff reductions. For more on the situation, 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.

Consumer “Made in USA” claims require products to be “all or virtually all” U.S.‑made, while federal procurement uses different and tightening domestic content tests under the Buy America Act and the Berry Amendment. That complexity is colliding with the President’s new PMA goal to “Deliver Results and Buy American.” It raises the stakes for verification, disclosure, and enforcement. Here to sort out what contractors must do to stay compliant is counsel at Reed Smith and former FTC “Made in USA” program manager, Julia Ensor.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The House has passed the Commerce Justice Science minibus, but lawmakers face a packed agenda before the January recess. Appropriators aim to release text for the next bundle including State Foreign Ops, Financial Services and Homeland Security soon, even as DHS funding hangs in the balance after a fatal ICE shooting. We’ll also track ACA subsidy talks in the Senate, war powers votes brewing on both sides of the Capitol and how Republicans plan to regroup after their retreat. We hear from 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 PMA push to “Deliver Results and Buy American” meets a thicket of rules that contractors can’t afford to misread In a crowded federal contracting space, Hive Group bets on innovation The House clears a key spending package and ACA subsidy extensionsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal agencies face mounting pressure to modernize without sacrificing security or compliance. Will Fortier, CEO of Hive Group, joins us to discuss the tech and process innovations driving mission value, the critical decisions behind Hive’s growth, and what the next five years look like for federal contracting in this episode of "Government Contractors to Watch" sponsored by JP Morgan Chase.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 took aim at defense contractors Wednesday, announcing new restrictions on executive pay and stock buybacks as part of the administration’s push to speed procurement and revitalize the defense industrial base. Trump said companies "are not permitted in any way, shape or form to pay dividends or buy back stock, until they are able to produce a superior product, on time and on budget." He also said he would ask Congress for a $1.5 trillion defense budget in fiscal 2027.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 new guidance on telework and remote work for federal employees. The updated policy now emphasizes as much in-person presence as possible across government. OPM’s revisions aim to better align with the Trump administration’s return-to-office orders. 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.

The federal government’s oldest legal obligations to provide health, education, and economic support for Tribal Nations remain chronically underfunded and uniquely vulnerable to shutdowns. A new Brookings Institution analysis argues Congress should shift more Native American funding to mandatory spending to protect treaty commitments. Here with more details is the report's author, Brookings Fellow Robert Maxim. Read the report here: https://www.brookings.edu/articles/the-government-shutdown-shows-the-need-to-reform-how-the-federal-government-funds-native-american-tribes-and-communities/ 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 latest shutdown exposed real problems in how Washington funds Indian Country Ever tried fixing your own car? The right-to-repair fight is heating up as costs soar and Congress weighs a national lawSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Despite strong bipartisan support and rising repair costs, right-to-repair provisions were stripped from the NDAA. Now, all eyes are on the REPAIR Act as lawmakers debate whether Americans should control how and where they fix their vehicles. Justin Rzepka, executive director of the Consumer Access to Repair Coalition, breaks down what’s at stake.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Secret Service is aiming to hire thousands of new employees over the next two years. To meet its goals, the agency is trying to cut its hiring timelines in half. The Secret Service’s recruiting push is just the latest in a hiring spree happening across federal law enforcement agencies. 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.

Lawmakers said the fiscal 2026 defense policy bill would deliver “the most significant acquisition reforms in a generation,” but some of the most ambitious changes lawmakers were pushing for during negotiations didn't make it into the final. Still, some provisions that survived negotiations could meaningfully change how the Defense Department buys technology, especially from small businesses and nontraditional contractors. 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 SIGAR’s final report closes a chapter on Afghanistan oversightCongress let ACA subsidies expire; Carolyn Bourdeaux explains the impact and why offsets matter for the debt crisis ISOA’s Global Summit is coming up...connecting government and industry for stability operations worldwideSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

SIGAR was born in 2008 to fill a critical gap in accountability for U.S. reconstruction efforts. Its last report distills hundreds of audits into hard truths: systemic weaknesses that outlasted the mission and reforms that never fully took hold. As the watchdog sunsets in early 2026, Acting Inspector General Gene Aloise explains what happens next—and why those lessons matter now more than ever.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From fragile states to disaster zones, ISOA helps bridge U.S. agencies and private sector capabilities. Its upcoming Global Summit in Washington will spotlight partnerships, small business opportunities, and trends shaping stability operations. Here with the details is Howie Lind, President of ISOA.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Affordable Care Act’s enhanced subsidies expired at year’s end, leaving millions facing higher premiums and lawmakers facing tough choices. Here to explain the real-world impact, why offsets matter, and what Congress must do to balance health care access with fiscal discipline is former member of Congress and now Executive Director of the Concord Coalition and Concord Action, Carolyn Bourdeaux.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 From paychecks to policy shifts, 2025 tested military families. We'll look ahead to what’s next in 2026 An accurate census shapes how billions flow to states and cities America’s data system is losing staff, funding, and trust. Could a new strategy backed by law turn the tide?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 rejecting some of the most severe agency budget cuts proposed by the Trump administration. It’s the latest step lawmakers are taking to pass a comprehensive spending plan for the rest of the fiscal year … and avoid a partial government shutdown at the end of the month. They’re also looking to put additional guardrails on unilateral agency reorganizations that could further shrink the federal workforce. 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.

Financial strain, workforce upheaval, and uncertainty marked the past year for servicemembers and veterans. Mike Meese, President of Armed Forces Mutual, looks back at the biggest challenges of 2025 and ahead to the policies that could shape 2026.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The census is more than just a headcount. It's the foundation for funding schools, clinics, and roads. A new report shows why accuracy matters more than ever. Sean Moulton from the Project on Government Oversight is here 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.

A new report warns that America’s federal statistical system is “at risk,” citing steep staffing losses, shrinking budgets, and eroding public trust. The analysis outlines nine steps to stabilize the system and modernize data delivery. Nancy Potok, former chief statistician of the United States, explains why the fix may require an entirely new organizing strategy backed by law.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Here's some good news for 2026, the buzzword in federal IT and acquisition community will not be artificial intelligence. But don't worry, AI and all the things around it will continue to be a hot topic. For more on the federal IT and acquisition topics, some experts say they'll be watching closely, Federal News Network's executive editor Jason Miller joins me with details from his annual survey. 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 embarking on big changes. Next year, it's looking to get the rocky rollout of the new electronic health record back on track. VA medical facilities already using the system have been beset with problems for years. Meanwhile, the VA is planning to roll out the biggest reorganization of its healthcare operation in decades. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman is here 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 Defense Department is expanding secure methods of authentication beyond the traditional Common Access Card, which will give users more alternative options to log into its systems when CAC access is impractical or infeasible. A new Pentagon memo lays out when alternative multi-factor authentication tools can be used and updates the list of approved authentication tools for different system impact levels. 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 Department of Defense has unveiled its first wave of 31 class deviations under the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul, a move aimed at cutting red tape and accelerating procurement. At the same time, a draft executive order could impose new limits on buybacks, dividends, and executive pay for defense firms. Here to walk through what these changes mean for industry and mission delivery 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.

Stricter federal compliance rules and mounting backlogs have exposed a critical weakness in how states process SNAP benefits. Modernizing document workflows in these outdated, paper-heavy systems could be the key to faster, more accurate aid delivery for millions of families. Andrew Joiner, CEO of Hyperscience, is here to share how AI can help solve the paperwork bottleneck.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 Technology emerges as the key for states to meet Medicaid work verification rules and avoid coverage gaps before the December 2026 deadlineThe SNAP program is under pressure, and states are drowning in paper as new mandates kick inThe news cycle for defense contractors is not slowing down as 2026 gets startedSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A federal mandate now requires states by December 2026 to confirm 80 hours of work or qualifying activities for Medicaid enrollees each month. Here to explain how automation could help states comply with these complex requirements and protect beneficiaries is General Manager and Senior Vice President at CITIZ3N, Rob Miller.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The past year in federal cybersecurity policy was full of uncertainty; a change in administration, expiring authorities and the emergence of artificial intelligence all brought plenty of questions to the cybersecurity landscape. Going into 2026 cyber policymakers and experts are hoping for more clarity. For more on what to expect in the year ahead, 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.

Heading into 2026 the Trump administration appears to only be getting started on its plans for overhauling the career civil service. Further changes for the federal workforce are on the horizon, and many of them are laid out in the goals of the new President's management agenda. Here with a look at what's ahead for federal employees 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 Gerton From gift lists to government systems, agentic AI is changing how we plan and prepareFrom language services to tech-driven defense, SOSi is making the most of innovation to stay ahead in federal contracting Congress returns with deadlines looming and big questions on spending and landmark legislationSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Julian Setian has scaled SOSi into a mid-tier powerhouse without outside equity or set-asides while betting big on innovation. From AI to ISR, he shares the pivotal shifts that define SOSi’s niche and its vision for the next five years in this episode of "Government Contractors to Watch" sponsored by JP Morgan Chase. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you’ve used AI to plan holiday travel or organize gift lists, you’ve seen its convenience. Agentic AI takes that autonomy further, promising to streamline operations and strengthen security, but it also demands new policies and workforce skills. Jason Oxman, President and CEO of the Information Technology Industry Council, explains what government must do now to prepare.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Both chambers return with packed agendas: the House eyeing ACA subsidies, hearings, and unfinished appropriations, while the Senate juggles confirmations and spending bills. Looming over it all are big 2026 questions, will January end in a CR or a shutdown, who might rise or fall in leadership, and whether major legislation like CISA reauthorization, workforce protections, and AI rules can break through gridlock. Loren Duggan, Deputy News Director at Bloomberg Government, is here with his predictions.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's January 2nd 2026, and today on the 'Best of' The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton, the closing panel for the Professional Services Council's VISION conference. Terry spoke with Vince Holloway, co chair of PSC defense panel and Kirsten Webb, co chair of their civilian agencies panel about how government contractors adapted to the disruptions of 2025 what strategies worked and what lessons were learned. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's New Year's Day 2026, and coming up on the 'Best of' The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton, we share some of our regular guests with their predictions for 2026.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The FAA has been working to update its aging air traffic control system, literally, for decades now. But 2026 is looking to be a big year on the FAA modernization front. The One Big Beautiful Bill Congress passed earlier this year puts more than $12 billion toward air traffic control modernization. And the FAA’s new administrator expects to obligate about half of that by the end of this fiscal year. Federal News Network’s Jared Serbu has an update on the agency’s modernization plans and how they’ve changed under the new administration. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Pentagon faces a shortage of more than 20,000 cyber professionals, and across the country, the civilian cyber shortfall is estimated at over 750,000. This raises big questions about how to build a stronger pipeline. Veterans bring mission focus and technical aptitude, but challenges remain in training, credentialing, and connecting talent to opportunity. Ryan Dunford of Bit Wizards is here to explore what works and what’s next for bridging the gap between military service and cyber careers.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 Bid protests crafted by AI are increasing, but when they cite cases that don’t exist, the fallout is realNIH aims to enroll a million Americans in a health study, but first it must close critical gaps in protecting their data The Pentagon says it's short more than 20,000 cyber professionals...one group says veterans could help fill the gapSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The All of Us Research Program aims to build one of the largest health databases in history, but an OIG audit found weaknesses in the National Institutes of Health’s oversight and access controls that could put sensitive participant data at risk. Charles Summers from the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General is here to discuss what needs to change to protect privacy as enrollment grows.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As contractors lean on AI to draft bid protests, some filings have cited cases that don’t exist or don’t support their claims. We’ll explore why this is happening, the legal risks and what AI means for speed and accuracy in acquisition with Stephen Bacon, partner in the Government Contracts Practice Group at 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.

Federal retirement delays are gaining more attention and criticism in Congress. House Democrats are pressing the Office of Personnel Management for answers on how it’s addressing abnormally high retirement numbers. The application surge, largely caused by the deferred resignation program, is slowing down retirement processing for thousands of former feds. 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.

In 2025 for a change, federal acquisition dominated the news cycle. From the FAR overhaul to GSA's OneGov strategy to the increased scrutiny on consultants, contracting was front and center for much of 2025. For more on some of the top news stories across the federal technology and acquisition landscape, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me with insights from his annual survey of experts.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 On a remote Alaskan glacier, a mission of recovery and respect continues 2026 could be the year government contracting shifts from disruption to execution From DOJ to VA, Kshmendra Paul’s journey shows what lasting public service looks likeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s a mission shaped by harsh terrain and deep responsibility: recovering and identifying service members lost in an Alaskan crash more than 70 years ago. Kate Grosso and Carlos Colon, medicolegal investigators with the Department of Defense, share what it takes to make that happen.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After nearly two decades shaping data sharing and governance across federal agencies, Kshmendra Paul has been elected a NAPA Fellow. We’ll talk about his proudest accomplishments, what this honor means, and his advice for the next generation of public servants.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Senate wrapped up 2025 by confirming 97 Trump appointees, bringing the total to 417 for his second term, a move that restores some predictability for industry and speeds up acquisition decisions. From procurement momentum to defense modernization and small-business integration, PSC is tracking the trends that will shape the year ahead. Joining us to break it down is Jim Carroll, President and 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 Department of Homeland Security's year was marked by high profile immigration enforcement operations and turbulence behind the scenes. DHS also received a historic influx of new funding under the tax and reconciliation bill passed by Congress in July, but the department faces some big management challenges as it prepares for a consequential year ahead. Justin Doubleday joins me now for more on DHS Year in Review. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

2025 has been a transformational year for the Defense Department. The Air Force scrapped most of its sweeping Reoptimization Initiative announced under previous leadership. The Army undertook one of its most significant acquisition and organizational reform efforts in decades. Federal News Network's Anastasia Obis joins me now to highlight some of the biggest changes that happened across the Defense Department this year. 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’s Global Air Monitoring Program gave diplomats and citizens abroad real-time data on air pollution and drove transparency worldwide. Its shutdown leaves a gap with serious health and economic consequences. We’ll explore what’s at stake and what it would take to restore the program with retired foreign service officer Tahra Vose.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 hidden DoD lab sounds like a cyber-thriller, but its real mission is shaping the future of digital investigations When the U.S. stops tracking global air quality, the world feels it An FBI practice meant to safeguard national security was quietly set aside for top leadershipSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

New reporting shows FBI Director Kash Patel granted polygraph waivers to Deputy Director Dan Bongino and two senior aides. That's an unprecedented step in the bureau’s clearance process. William Turton of ProPublica explains what that decision means for vetting standards and oversight.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Few people outside the Pentagon know about the Defense Department's CyberCrime Center's Cyber Forensics Lab, but its work underpins Defense Department criminal investigations, major defense contractor cases, and even Justice Department prosecutions. Today, we’ll uncover how this team’s cutting-edge capabilities strengthen national security and redefine what’s possible in digital forensics with the lab's director, Kevin Rivera.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's Friday, December 26th, and today on the 'Best of' the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton, we're sharing conversations with some amazing people and what motivates their public service.Diana BurleyElizabeth Kolmstetter Dr. David GoffSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's Thursday, December 25th, Christmas Day and today on the 'Best of" the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton, we're sharing some of our conversations with amazing people on what motivates their public service. 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 reshaped many agencies this year. But the General Services Administration became the focus point of many governmentwide changes. The Department of Government Efficiency set high cost-cutting goals for GSA. Next year, an agency watchdog take a closer look at whether it met those targets. 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.

After a tumultuous year for the federal workforce, many feds are in a much different position now than they were at the start of 2025. The Trump administration's workforce reductions hit some agencies harder than others, but no matter which way you slice it, the loss of 300,000 employees has significantly reshaped government. Here with more on this 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.

After a year of shutdowns, cuts and uncertainty, many former federal employees are struggling with stress and identity loss. Therapy4Feds offers free and low-cost counseling to help them cope and rebuild. We’ll talk with founder Roz Beroza about why she launched the program and how people can get support.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From TSP contributions to investment choices and building a stronger safety net, a few smart moves now can set federal employees up for confidence all year long. Certified Financial Planner Thiago Glieger joins me with helpful hints to building a strong financial plan.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 NDAA change could strip away decades of cost rules for most defense contractors The start of a new year is the perfect time to reset your financial game plan Therapy4Feds offers a lifeline for former federal employees facing tough timesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The new law exempts nontraditional defense contractors from FAR cost principles, certified cost or pricing data, and Defense Department business systems requirements, potentially affecting more than 90% of the defense industrial base. We’ll break down what this means with Dan Ramish, 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.

President Donald Trump announced last week that every service member would receive a $1,776 bonus right before Christmas. The president suggested that the money would come from excess tariff revenues. Turns out, the money is coming from funds Congress already approved to boost military housing allowance. Federal News Network 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 National Institute of Standards and Technology drives many cyber workforce and education initiatives under the NICE program. And for the last decade, Rodney Petersen has been the familiar face in charge of leading NICE. Petersen is retiring at the start of the new year. He recently sat down with Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday to discuss the evolution of the cyber workforce during his time in government and what comes next in the age of artificial intelligence. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The new National Defense Authorization Act spans thousands of pages, but one theme stands out: speed. The Professional Services Council says the law will accelerate delivery of critical technologies and give innovative companies a clearer path to support the warfighter. PSC President Stephanie Kostro joins us to break down what matters most, without making you read all 3,000 pages.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The 2026 National Defense Authorization Act includes key protections from the Military Family Bill of Rights, a framework created by spouses and parents to guarantee safety, dignity, and transparency for those who serve alongside service members. Brandi Jones, Organizing Director at Secure Families Initiative, is here to explain what these changes mean and why families fought for them.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 NDAA could redefine life for military families by including a Bill of Rights they helped write The NDAA is signed, and at over 3,000 pages, it could be your holiday read. But buried in all that text are big changes for defense acquisition A new honor for a leader who’s shaped cybersecurity policy and talent across sectorsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Diana Burley has helped define national cybersecurity standards, advised agencies and built bridges between research and practice. Now, she’s been named a Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration, a milestone that reflects her impact on the future of the cybersecurity and the workforce. She joins me to offer some insights from her long career in public service.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Vendors who file frivolous bid protests will now be held more accountable under a provision in the 2026 defense authorization bill. The “loser pays” language is trying to actively discourage incumbent contractors from filing protests just to keep getting paid. New data from the Government Accountability Office shows vendors are becoming more discerning when it comes to filing complaints, seemingly making this new language less necessary. Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me to discuss the current bid protest landscape. 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 see more robust requirements when preparing federal employees to join the Senior Executive Service. A new proposal from the Office of Personnel Management looks to reform and standardize SES candidate development programs across government. But without the right attention, planning, and resources, some say OPM’s efforts could fall flat. Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman gets more from the Partnership for Public Service’s vice president of government affairs, Jenny Mattingley.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Before recess, lawmakers moved a few priorities forward but also left major challenges behind. Deputy News Director for Bloomberg Government, Loren Duggan, joins us with the scorecard and the stakes for January.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 DHS calls it a once-in-a-lifetime chance for STEM students—and the clock is ticking 2025 reshaped federal cybersecurity, from new mandates to tougher compliance rules The holiday break comes with unfinished business on Capitol HillSee 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’s Science and Technology Directorate is accepting applications for its HS-POWER internship program. The program offers hands-on work on mission-critical technologies with DHS mentors. Here to tell us more about the program and the January 5th application deadline, is Deputy Director, Office of University Programs at the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate, Jennifer Foley.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This year brought sweeping changes to how agencies and contractors secure sensitive data, from the rollout of CMMC to tighter restrictions on controlled unclassified information. Townsend Bourne, Partner at Shepherd Mullin, explains why 2025 was a turning point and what it means for risk management 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 Treasury Department is officially suspending Direct File, a free online tax filing platform the IRS launched last year. The department said it’s exploring alternatives. That includes strengthening its partnership with tax preparation companies through its Free File program. Direct File expanded to 25 states during this year’s filing season and saw higher favorability scores. But Treasury said the program cost too much and didn’t see enough usage to keep scaling it up. For more on what happens next, Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman spoke with the CEO of Code for America, Amanda Renteria.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The future at the Federal Emergency Management Agency remains murky after the Trump administration recently delayed a long-anticipated report from the FEMA Review Council. The uncertainty around the council’s recommendations cap a year of flux at FEMA. Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me 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.

Anthropic says Chinese hackers used its Claude chatbot to automate a cyberespionage campaign against tech firms, financial institutions and government agencies, marking what could be the first large-scale AI-driven attack. Joining me to explain what this means for defenders and what’s next for nation-state tactics is the former department head of AI security at MITRE and co-founder of AI security consulting firm, Fire Mountain Labs, Dr. Josh Harguess.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 When hackers weaponize AI, the rules of cyber defense change overnight New provisions in the shutdown-ending funding deal aim to modernize Congress with data tools and casework innovations championed by POPVOX Foundation A recent court ruling could reshape how agencies source under the Trade Agreements ActSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The bipartisan package that ended the shutdown includes measures to upgrade legislative operations, from a Data Map for AI readiness to Case Compass for smarter constituent service. Danielle Stewart of POPVOX Foundation explains how these changes tackle Congress’s “pacing problem” 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.

The Court of Federal Claims ruled that the VA violated the Trade Agreements Act by awarding a drug contract to a non-compliant supplier, rejecting the agency’s argument that high cost justified bypassing the law. The decision underscores that TAA imposes an outright sourcing prohibition and not a price preference. Here to explain what this means for federal procurement 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.

The Office of Personnel Management wants to bring a surge of technical expertise into the government’s ranks. The agency is aiming to recruit 1,000 new federal employees for the inaugural class of the “U.S. Tech Force." The new hiring effort comes after hundreds of thousands of feds left government this year. 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 Military Family Advisory Network is conducting its biennial survey to better understand the needs of military and veteran families worldwide. The stories shared through the survey lead to real change. The research has helped shape major policy and quality-of-life reforms, including the Military Housing Privatization Initiative’s Tenant Bill of Rights and a Congressional quality-of-life panel for service members and their families. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Military Family Advisory Network’s Chief Executive Officer Shannon Razsadin. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

America’s air traffic system is showing cracks, and the shutdown only widened them. Chris Edwards of the Cato Institute is here to explain why budget dependence and failed modernization make the system fragile, and why he believes a Canadian-style model could be the fix.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 Service members face a simple truth with complex consequences: follow lawful orders, refuse unlawful ones Can a year in government spark a lifetime of innovation? What reforms can fix our fragile air traffic control system?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Recent comments from lawmakers have raised alarms about unlawful orders, but the real question is how service members decide what’s legal. Frank Rosenblatt from The Orders Project explains the rules and the risks.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

NobleReach wants to make public service a stop on the career journey, not a permanent detour. Its Scholars program places early-career professionals in federal roles tackling AI, cybersecurity, and more. We’ll explore how the initiative is evolving and what it means for talent mobility with NobleReach CEO Arun Gupta.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Agencies have 90 days to update acquisition polices to ensure that the artificial intelligence tools they purchase are truth seeking and ideological neutral. A new memo from the Office of Management and Budget details new requirements starting March 11 for contracts awarded for large language models. Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me with more on what agencies will have to do to meet the administration's new AI guidelines.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Early in the Trump administration the Department of Government Efficiency directed the General Services Administration to take major cuts to leased office space. GSA officials say they successfully terminated hundreds of leases this year, but far fewer than goals set by DOGE. These updated figures come at a time when government officials are taking stock of DOGE’s impact, and whether agencies came close to achieving the Trump administration’s government efficiency goals. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman joins me with more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Six months after launch, the Impact Project has grown in scope and added a Security Map that reveals patterns in threats against public servants. Abby Andre, the project's founding executive director, explains what the data shows and how it can guide action.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 Impact Project expands its reach with a new Security Map that exposes threats facing public servants How lean can government get before essential services start to fail? GAO says the Coast Guard’s biggest shipbuilding program faces major design and cost risksSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Holiday travel and tax season remind us how much we rely on federal workers. Elaine Kamarck of the Brookings Institution is here to explain what happens when staffing cuts push government past its breaking point and why the drive for efficiency can create systemic risk.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Coast Guard urgently needs 25 Offshore Patrol Cutters to replace aging ships, but GAO found serious challenges, from unstable designs to unclear cost baselines that put the $17 billion program at risk. Shelby Oakley, Director of Contracting and National Security Acquisitions at GAO, is here to break down the risks and what needs to change before Stage 3 ship construction begins.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal retirement processing has slowed substantially this year due to the Deferred Resignation program. As the Office of Personnel Management continues modernizing retirement systems, another application surge looms.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 moving to strip away the union rights of Transportation Security Administration employees for the second time this year. As part of its latest move, DHS would dissolve TSA’s collective bargaining agreement early next year. The union that represents TSA employees has vowed to fight this latest action in court. Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me with the latest.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 deferred resignation program helped lead to a massive and unexpected surge in retirement applications, now flooding the government’s retirement systems. But amid that application influx, the Office of Personnel Management has also rolled out a major effort to modernize the legacy federal retirement system. Many experts see the launch of OPM’s “online retirement application” as a long-awaited improvement. But with high retirement volumes, some remain wary of the timing. As part of her special report this week, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman gives us the details.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 seeing signs of stability. Retirement processing is improving, workforce protections are holding, and pay raise prospects are clearer. But with continuing resolutions and hiring freezes still in the mix, the path forward requires careful planning. Here with a look ahead is National Association of Retired Federal Employees Association, Vice President for Policy and Programs, John Hatton.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 Emily Murphy is here with her insights on how federal acquisition changed in 2025 and what’s likely to be coming in 2026 There are some hopeful signs of stability for the federal work force as retirement backlogs are easing, RIF protections are holding, and a modest 2026 payraise looks likely From NASA to CISA, she’s shaped the federal workforce for three decades, and now Elizabeth Kolmstetter is joining the ranks of NAPA FellowsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Elizabeth Kolmstetter has led talent strategy across nine agencies, launched programs in engagement and analytics, and earned some of government’s highest honors. Now she's joining the ranks of Fellows of the National Academy of Public Administration. She joins me today to reflect on her career and the future 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.

2025 brought major shifts in how the government buys, from centralization to the FAR rewrite. Emily Murphy, senior fellow at the George Mason University Baroni Center for Government Contracting, is here to look back at the lessons learned and ahead to the trends shaping acquisition in 2026.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Over the past year, there’s been a major uptick in the government’s use of the False Claims Act to take companies to task for cybersecurity violations. The Trump administration has announced six separate False Claims Act settlements. And enforcement has been especially aggressive for companies who do business with the Defense Department. Sara McLean is a former assistant director of the fraud section in the Justice Department’s Commercial Litigation Branch. She talked with Federal News Network’s Jason Miller about the enforcement trend.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 “deferred resignation program” this year led to more than 150,000 employees leaving their jobs, in exchange for months of paid leave. But for many of those who took the DRP, the offer came with an added opportunity. Thousands also qualified for early retirement. Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman spent the last several months conducting interviews, reviewing documents, and gathering data about federal retirement processing. She found that the DRP helped lead to a massive and unexpected surge in applications, now inundating the government’s retirement systems.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 final regulation issued on Halloween has reshaped the Public Student Loan Forgiveness programA new bill could turn military experience into energy-sector strength Defense, health care, oversight and spending; these four fronts are exposing deep divides on Capitol HillSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From the NDAA fight over helicopter flights near Reagan National to stalled health care extensions, unfinished oversight on a deadly boat strike and nine spending bills still hanging in the balance, Congress is juggling high-stakes battles with no easy compromises. Mitchell Miller, Capitol Hill correspondent for WTOP, is here with the fault lines shaping the final stretch of the year.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The electro industry powers everything from national security to AI leadership, but a shortage of skilled workers threatens progress. The National Electrical Manufacturers' Association sees veterans as the solution and backs the Veterans Energy Transition Act to make it happen. We’ll explore the stakes and the bill with Peter Ferrell, senior director of government relations at NEMA.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 Education has finalized regulations that redefine Public Student Loan Forgiveness eligibility, barring organizations with a “substantial illegal purpose.” Randall Thomas, Partner at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius explains what this means for borrowers, employers and compliance going forward.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More than a dozen federal statistical agencies are falling behind on producing high-quality data sets that impact the U.S. economy and government policy. The American Statistical Association finds changes under the Trump administration have led to certain public-facing data sets being delayed, suspended or canceled. It’s also flagging declines public trust scores in data sets produced by the federal government. 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 doesn’t want to leave companies hanging when they reach out with a bold new innovation or tech development. So CISA this month unveiled its “Industry Engagement Platform,” where people can sign up to communicate directly with agency officials. For more on the new platform, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday spoke with the chief information officer at CISA, Bob Costello.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 rules in the NDAA aim to cut red tape in defense contracting—but will they deliver? Federal leaders face the challenge of restoring stability and agency performance after months of workforce disruptionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The NDAA rewrites the playbook for cost accounting and pricing, with changes that could ease burdens but raise new questions. We’ll explore the details and the stakes 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.

Months of disruption have left some federal employees disengaged and others burned out. Laurin Parthemos of Kotter explains what leaders must do to restore stability and psychological safety and find a "new normal" 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 8(a) small business contracting program is in a fight for its life. From Capitol Hill to the courts to now the executive branch, the 47-year old program is facing questions about its legitimacy and challenges to its true impact like never before. For more on how the increased level of scrutiny is putting the 8(a) contracting program in the cross hairs, 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.

It took several years, including some false starts, but the Defense Department’s Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program in now a reality. The final rules are in place, and several hundred contractors have already earned their third party certifications. But most of the initial implementation work will happen over the next year. For a look at the work ahead, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday talked with Matthew Travis. He’s the CEO of the Cyber Accreditation Body, the nonprofit organization that helps manage the certification process.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 fixing the Pentagon’s back office make the front lines stronger? Procurement could decide whether AI succeeds or fails in governmentAI is stepping into the fight for supply chain resilience and battlefield readinessSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new guide from the Open Contracting Partnership frames procurement as the key to effective AI adoption in government. It highlights how agencies can manage risk, cut through vendor hype, and foster collaboration between IT and acquisition teams. We’ll explore those insights with Kathrin Frauscher, Deputy Executive Director at the Open Contracting Partnership (OCP). See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new Deloitte report argues that inefficiencies in HR, finance, IT, and acquisitions are draining resources from warfighting. It calls for an AI-first overhaul to fuel lethality and readiness. Tom Muir, former Department of Defense leader and Specialist Executive with Deloitte is here to explain what it will take to transform mission support and why this time might be different.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Defense leaders warn that fragile supply chains and maintenance bottlenecks could undermine readiness. Advanced AI-powered world models can help integrate real-time logistics data, predict disruptions, and accelerate manufacturing agility. Here to explain what “smart logistics” means for the military and the defense industrial base is Jon Gerrity, CEO of Tagup Inc.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 in San Francisco is temporarily blocking the State Department from finalizing hundreds of employee layoffs. Foreign Service employees were slated to be officially separated from the agency last week. But federal employee unions are making the case that State and several other agencies aren’t fully adhering to a provision in the shutdown-ending spending bill. That provision temporarily blocked the Trump administration from carrying out layoffs. 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 plan to fix its decades-old material weaknesses, specifically its inability to reliably track government property in the possession of contractors, is failing. The Defense Department inspector general warns that if the services don’t implement a department-wide solution soon the Pentagon risks missing its goal of achieving a clean audit opinion by 2028. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Mark Thomas, DoD IG’s supervisory auditor.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 reviewed the Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection’s reliance on soft-sided facilities amid surging apprehensions and billions in contract obligations. Here to explain what GAO found, why it matters for cost and oversight and what’s next for border infrastructure planning is Travis Masters, Director of Contracting and National Security Acquisitions 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 DOJ ordered a sweeping data collection from U.S. attorneys on Trump-era priorities days before ThanksgivingThe EEOC powers up for swift action with full funding, a quorum and new priorities With billions spent on temporary border facilities, GAO says DHS needs a better planSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With full funding restored and a quorum in place, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is moving fast to enforce Trump administration executive orders. Here to discuss what employers should expect, and how to prepare, is Debra Leder, Partner in Labor and Employment at Akerman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Justice Department has directed all 93 U.S. attorneys to compile extensive data on enforcement mandates including immigration, political violence, and sanctuary jurisdictions. Bloomberg Law’s Ben Penn explains what triggered the move, what DOJ wants, and the implications for prosecutorial independence.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 just laid out its President’s Management Agenda. The PMA details the administration’s vision to drive changes in government for the next few years. But with many of President Trump’s goals already underway, the PMA’s priorities may look familiar. 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 Can our safety net programs survive stress and deliver more than short-term relief? GSA’s next-generation contract vehicle is expanding—and small businesses need to pay attention Jamie Morin helped shape defense strategy from inside the Pentagon. Now he’s being honored for his contributions to public serviceSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jamie Morin has been elected a Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration, recognizing his leadership in defense budgeting, cost analysis and strategic planning. He's here to reflect on what drew him into public service, what’s changed in public administration, and how he hopes to contribute to the Academy’s mission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OASIS+ enters Phase II with five new service domains and draft scorecards expected December 16 ahead of a January 12 solicitation date. The expansion could reshape competition and compliance for federal contractors, especially small businesses. Stephanie Kostro, President of the Professional Services Council is here to share her insights.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Former federal employees say they lost their jobs as part of the Trump administration’s plans to remove diversity, equity and inclusion programs. But some claim their most recent jobs had nothing to do with DEI. They’re now part of a class-action lawsuit challenging their removal. For more on this case, Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman spoke with an attorney representing the plaintiffs, Mary Kuntz. But first you’ll hear from one of the plaintiffs themselves Mahri Stainnak. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shutdowns and crises expose the fragility of programs meant to protect the most vulnerable. Clarence Carter, Tennessee’s Human Services Commissioner and author of "Our Net Has Holes In It," is here to discuss lessons from his decades of reform and how to build a safety net that works for people, not politics.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The National Flood Insurance Program is a lifeline for communities in flood-prone areas, but during the shutdown its borrowing authority plunged and new policies froze. That disruption rippled through housing markets and raised questions about the resilience of federal disaster programs. Joining us to review what happened and what’s next is Nicole Upano, Assistant Vice President of Public Policy at the National Apartment Association.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 Centralization is back in vogue, but is it the right model for government shared services? The federal flood insurance program is key to stable housing markets, the shutdown revealed its fragility House drama over the defense bill sets the stage for a high-stakes December on Capitol HillSee 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 federal employees have left their jobs this year, due to the Trump administration’s efforts. Now, the Office of Personnel Management is telling agencies to start rethinking their senior executive staffing too. The request comes as OPM introduces a number of other changes for federal managers. 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.

In the Army, a new acquisition bureaucracy is starting to take shape. It means new names for some longstanding Army organizations. But at its core, the reorganization is about letting Army officials manage the acquisition system as portfolios of capabilities, with less of a focus on individual programs. That idea’s been championed by outside reform advocates for years. But now it also has the support of the secretary of Defense. We get the 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.

Lawmakers are scrambling to bring the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to the floor next week amid partisan clashes. The Senate is preparing a vote on health care subsidies, while appropriations talks remain stalled, and a Supreme Court case on Humphrey’s Executor looms large in the background. Loren Duggan, deputy news director at Bloomberg Government, is here with the inside scoop.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 second-term strategy leans toward consolidating acquisition, HR and financial management under a centralized approach. That's a departure from the marketplace model of its first term. John Marshall and Steve Goodrich are here to discuss what that means for agency autonomy and service quality. John is the founder and CEO of the Shared Services Leadership Coalition. Steve chairs the SSLC board.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This year continues to be challenging for the federal workforce. While federal offices reopened and hundreds of thousands of federal workers went back to work after the longest shutdown in history, many say nothing is back to normal. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more from an exclusive Federal News Network survey. 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’s diplomatic workforce is feeling overburdened, under-resourced and more likely to leave in the next few years. That’s according to a recent survey from the American Foreign Service Association. The State Department conducted widespread layoffs this year. It also closed and consolidated hundreds of offices as part of an agency reorganization. Foreign Service officers say they’re spread thin because of these changes. 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.

As Congress catches up on its shutdown backlog, tax legislation is back in play. But now those conversations are under the shadow of an election year. Anna Taylor, Managing Principal of Deloitte’s Tax Policy Group, joins us to break down what’s realistic for year-end packages and the road ahead for tax policy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

VA's outdated infrastructure and regional silos make care coordination painfully slow, especially for mental health. Sean O'Connor, navy veteran and Co-Founder & Chief Strategy Officer at DexCare is here to explain why modernization is urgent and how real-time access could transform veteran care.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 VA's size and complexity may be keeping top tech minds away, and veterans pay the priceWhat can individuals and businesses expect when the tax filing window opens in just a few weeks? A protest from a winner? A recent case shows why timing matters when challenging solicitation termsSee 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 has rejected a post-award protest from Active Deployment Systems, which argued ICE awarded too many IDIQ contracts for detention services. The decision underscores that disputes over solicitation language and pricing structures must be raised before bidding, not after award. Zach Prince, Partner at Haynes Boone, explains what lessons we can take from this case.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Technology Modernization Fund is running out of time. In eight days, the reauthorization will expire for the eight-year old governmentwide account to help agencies update IT systems. That is unless Congress acts to extend the TMF. For more on what it would mean if the Technology Modernization Fund would expire, 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 House Oversight and Government Reform Committee has just advanced an array of bills, including many that would impact the federal workforce. Some legislation, such as a bill to overhaul the probationary period, passed just along party lines. But other bills, like one that would standardize training for federal executives, received unanimous committee support. 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.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry GertonA new CFPB rule strengthens credit data standards, helping lenders assess risk and borrowers access affordable creditPSC's vision conference proved that forecasting government contractor workload for 2026 is no easy taskOutdated SEC communications rules are putting compliance and competitiveness at riskSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Timely payments, rescinding stop-work orders and monitoring long-term impacts are top priorities as agencies restart operations. We’ll also look at key takeaways from PSC’s Vision Conference with CEO Jim Carroll.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association is urging the SEC to modernize its communication and recordkeeping rules. Robert Cruz, Vice President of Information Governance at Smarsh, joins us to explain why the current framework is falling behind, how firms are navigating enforcement risks, and what a workable compliance model could look like.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has issued a new rule that reinforces national standards for credit reporting. It confirms that federal law takes precedence over conflicting state rules, a move the Consumer Data Industry Association says will improve consistency, lower costs, and protect access to credit. Dan Smith, President and CEO of CDIA, is here to explain what the rule means for lenders, borrowers, and the future of credit data.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 centralizing the processing of reasonable accommodation requests from its employees. As a result, it’s facing a months-long backlog. HHS employees say the department is making it harder for employees with disabilities to receive telework as a reasonable accommodation as the Trump administration enforces a return to office mandate. For more on 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.

A new federal spending forecast is out and it paints two different pictures for defense and civilian agencies. The Professional Services Council projects that defense spending will keep climbing through 2035. But civilian agencies aren’t so lucky, analysts predict that non-defense budgets are likely to remain flat or shrink. 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.

A new semester-long program is giving 75 students hands-on experience with advanced AI tools used in defense and cybersecurity. The AWS Generative Artificial Intelligence Training aims to prepare cadets and civilian trainees for careers in national security. Jamie Cogbill, Deputy Director, Defense Civilian Training Corps at Virginia Tech's National Security Institute, is here to fill us in on 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 Virginia Tech and Amazon Web Services are teaming up to train the next generation of national security leaders in generative AIAn objective, unemotional investment strategy for your TSP...easy to say but hard to do in uncertain times GenAI adoption is reshaping roles and raising tough questions about workforce strategySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From skill-based adoption patterns to displacement risks, what do these AI trends mean for government jobs and the policies that support reskilling? We’ll explore the long game for integrating GenAI with Dr. Ramayya Krishnan, Director of the Center for AI Measurement Science and Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After weeks of missed paychecks and with another shutdown deadline just a few weeks away, financial stress is real, and emotions can drive costly investment mistakes. How do you rebuild emergency savings, stay disciplined, and prepare for the next market downturn without derailing long-term goals? We’ll get practical steps and common pitfalls from 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.

Senior executives have some new training and development opportunities from the Office of Personnel Management. The optional courses cover many of the Trump administration’s new priorities for the federal workforce. OPM initially launched the trainings in November, but the agency says there will be continuous updates to the content moving forward. For more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman sat down with OPM Director Scott Kupor. Here's part two of their conversation.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Senior executives have some new training and development opportunities from the Office of Personnel Management. The optional courses cover many of the Trump administration’s new priorities for the federal workforce. OPM initially launched the trainings in November, but the agency says there will be continuous updates to the content moving forward. For more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman sat down with OPM Director Scott Kupor. Here's part one of their conversation.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Four military aid societies are joining forces under the theme #MakeGivingYourSuperpower to raise critical funds for service members and their families, especially those hit hard by the shutdown and holiday strain. With Lockheed Martin pledging to match donations up to $1 million, retired Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Robert Ruark, President and CEO of the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, explains why this year’s effort matters more than ever.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Over a month of frozen federal functions stalled Small Business Administration loan approvals and cut off IRS data that lenders rely on. Those disruptions rippled through housing markets and raised questions about systemic vulnerabilities. Here to walk through the lessons and what’s next is Dave Bohrman, Co-Founder and VP of Marketing at Tax Guard.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 This Giving Tuesday, one campaign aims to turn generosity into a lifeline for military familiesFrom Capitol Hill to GSA, Katy Kale has spent decades behind the scenes making government work and now she’s being honored for itThe shutdown may be over, but its ripple effects on lending and tax compliance are just beginningSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Katy Kale has been elected a Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration, recognizing her long career in federal service and her commitment to operational excellence. She's here to reflect on what drew her into public administration, what’s kept her going, and how she hopes to shape the field’s future.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 wants to shake up how it works with value-added resellers. In a draft memo obtained by Federal News Network, the Pentagon would place a 5% cap on most fees charged by resellers. DoD will start with a specific special item number or SIN for IT products. For more on what DoD is planning, Federal News Network’s executive editor Jason Miller joins me now with exclusive details.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Customer satisfaction with benefits and services provided by the federal government is higher than it’s been in nearly two decades. That’s despite a tumultuous year where agencies have seen a major downsizing of the federal workforce. Scores are higher on average, but the latest scorecard from the American Customer Satisfaction Index shows a few agencies are seeing lower scores. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman spoke with associate professor of marketing at Michigan State University and director of research emeritus at ASCI, Forrest Morgeson.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 book reveals how a covert U.S. campaign targeted the Sinaloa Cartel and drove a 40% reduction in fentanyl deaths POGO has new recommendations to improve the 2026 NDAA before it's finalized Congress faces a packed December agenda and big decisions on healthcare subsidiesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Project On Government Oversight wants Congress to repeal outdated war authorizations, avoid expanding military roles at the border, and strengthen oversight of defense contracts. Their NDAA recommendations also call out the gap between GAO’s reform backlog and lawmakers’ push to undo key acquisition statutes. Greg Williams, National Security Analyst at POGO is here to walk through the priorities and risks.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From the White House plan to extend healthcare subsidies to the search for a new Comptroller General as Gene Dodaro retires, December brings high-stakes debates on Capitol Hill. Mitchell Miller of WTOP breaks down what’s ahead and what shifting GOP dynamics mean for policy and legislation.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 quietly launched its most ambitious anti-cartel operation in decades, targeting Chinese chemical suppliers and the Sinaloa Cartel with cyber tools, diplomatic pressure, and law enforcement muscle. Jake Braun, author and former White House official, reveals how the strategy unfolded and what’s at stake if Washington backs off.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's Friday, November 28, 2025 and today on the 'Best of' the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton, we look back at some our our conversations about recommendations from the Government Accountability Office.What's missing from the National Strategy to address domestic terrorism? Big opportunities to improve how the nation disposes of its nuclear waste Aviation meteorologists help keep flights safe, but there aren’t enough of them?Billion-dollar disasters are increasing and FEMA’s workforce may not be ready to respondSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's Thanksgiving Day and today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton, we look back at some our our interviews looking at Space.The Army is updating its missile defense strategy and shifting command focus to better protect the homeland It sounds like the start of a sci-fi thriller, nuclear reactors on the moon Robots in space? A new GAO report says they could change everything—from satellite repairs to space junk From Apollo to Artemis—Air and Space gets a high-tech rebootSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The D.C. Armory transformed into a place of gratitude last week as D.C. National Guard members and their families lined up for free Thanksgiving meals at an annual event hosted by the nonprofit Operation Homefront. With grocery prices rising and many service members still feeling the financial strain of the recent shutdown, the organization says demand for assistance has surged. Food requests alone are up 57% from last year. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Operation Homefront Senior Director Vivian Dietrich about their Holiday Meals for Military program. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Senior executives across government have some new opportunities for development. The Office of Personnel Management has just launched two new training series. They’ll focus on topics like budget, policy and human capital management while also incorporating many of the Trump administration’s overhauls to the federal workforce this year. Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman gets more from OPM Director Scott Kupor.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Forty former state attorneys general signed a letter urging Congress to fund judicial security after threats tracked by the US Marshal Service surged in recent years. Federal News Network's Jared Serbu spoke with Former Arkansas Attorney General Dustin McDaniel to learn how federal judges took the unprecedented step of asking for help and what's driving intimidation from federal courtrooms to state judiciaries nationwide.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Future Tech Enterprise fed 29 years of procurement responses into an AI model and cut an RFQ team from seven people to one. Federal News Network's Eric White spoke with CEO Bob Venero to understand why he believes the Defense Department should use the same technology to evaluate bids faster and cheaper. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Contracted medical exams are the foundation for determining disability benefits, but GAO says oversight gaps put exam quality and veterans’ benefits at risk. We’ll discuss what needs fixing and why it matters with GAO Director Elizabeth Curda.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 GertonWhen federal judges fear for their families, the entire justice system is under attack What comes next for federal workers after AI takes over the mundane tasksThe first step in a veteran’s disability claim can make or break the outcomeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new survey finds that nearly every service member living in privatized military housing has experienced serious problems in their home and many of those issues go unresolved. The Change the Air Foundation recently launched the Safe Military Housing Survey, one of the most comprehensive efforts yet to collect data the Defense Department has never been able to track accurately. The nonprofit found that three quarters of respondents were dealing with mold and microbial growth, which is extremely hazardous to a person's health. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Erica Thompson, a military spouse and the military families’ liaison for the Change the Air Foundation, and Brandon Chappo, director of public policy at the foundation.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When it comes to getting spare parts for military systems, it’s not always as easy as simply placing an order. Sometimes the original manufacturers no longer exist. Sometimes wait times are excruciatingly long. That’s one reason the Navy wants to make the best use it can of the materials it already owns. A new effort by Naval Supply Systems Command aims to help do that by reusing as many items as possible from decommissioned units, instead of sending them away for disposal as surplus property. Robert Medina is the deputy director for NAVSUP’s West Coast Consumable Asset Reutilization Program, and Doug Murphy is the material management and warehouse utilization product and service lead. They talked about it with Federal News Network’s Jared Serbu. Murphy speaks first. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

EPA enforcement cases have plummeted, even as non-compliance rates climb. Now, a major staffing cut at the Justice Department's environmental section and a federal shutdown that paused inspections leave enforcement at a crossroads. Federal News Network's Eric White spoke with Former EPA Deputy Assistant Administrator Stacy Geis about the resource drain crippling environmental enforcement and whether states can fill the widening gap.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 When a quarter of polluting facilities ignore the law, who's left to enforce it? A new center aims to modernize federal lending at a scale few realize exists Federal agency business forecasts have gone dark, and companies are struggling to plan without themSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Companies depend on accurate forecasts to plan bids and workforce, but some agencies have let those tools slip despite Office of Management and Budget guidance. Stephanie Kostro, President of the Professional Services Council, is here to explain what’s driving the gaps and previews PSC’s Vision Federal Market Forecast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The government manages a $5 trillion credit portfolio across more than 125 programs, and a new organization wants to bring technology, consistency, and integrity to that system. We’ll explore the mission and vision of the Center for USA Lending with its founder, Doug Criscitello.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Congress directed the Trump administration to rescind shutdown-era layoffs as part of a spending deal that ended the government shutdown. Some employees targeted by layoffs say they haven’t been brought back and that the language in the continuing resolution supports their push for reinstatement. But agencies say some of their reductions in force will remain in effect. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman is here 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.

President Trump’s transition into the White House earlier this year was not exactly usual. The administration departed from several norms of the presidential transition process, leaving open some big questions for the future. The Partnership for Public Service has some key takeaways from the latest presidential transition along with recommendations for reforming the process. Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman gets more from the Partnership’s vice president of government affairs, Jenny Mattingley.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lawmakers are racing to finalize the National Defense Authorization Act, with a vote expected in early December. At the same time, nine appropriations bills remain unresolved after the shutdown deal, and the Senate is preparing for a high-stakes vote on health care premiums before year’s end. Loren Duggan, deputy news director for Bloomberg Government is here with what to expect when Congress returns after Thanksgiving.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Albania has appointed an AI system named Diella as a cabinet-level ‘minister’ overseeing public procurement. The move raises big questions about accountability, transparency, and whether algorithmic governance is a glimpse of the future or a risky one-off. Federal News Network's Eric White explores what this means for democracy and decision-making with Sam Adebayo, a contributor for Forbes.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Advisory boards are disappearing across the federal government, often over agency objections. The cuts weaken scientific input and shift decision-making toward political appointees. Robert Iafolla from Bloomberg Law breaks down the fallout and what it means going forward.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 What happens when a government gives an algorithm a seat at the cabinet table? The Trump administration is eliminating expert panels at a historic pace, reshaping how agencies make decisions What's happening with the 2026 appropriations bills?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 has kicked off another major human resources modernization effort. And unlike its effort to consolidate 119 different HR systems across the government, this one came with little fanfare. OPM is planning to revamp the USA Hire platform, which provides agency hiring managers candidate assessment tools, with the goal of making evaluations more efficient and leading to higher quality of applicants. For more on OPM's newest HR IT modernization initiative, 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 Army is taking the next step in its ambitions to start using small nuclear reactors to power critical infrastructure on at least some of its bases. This week, the service started the solicitation process for its Janus program via the Defense Innovation Unit, and assuming the technology works out the way the Army thinks it will, we now also know some of the first bases that are most likely to benefit from it. Details here 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.

The National Armaments Consortium works with the Department of Defense to accelerate innovation in armaments technology. With five new industry veterans joining its Executive Committee, NAC is sharpening its focus on supply chain resilience, workforce development, and acquisition reform. I'll explore what’s changing for NAC with Ben Harris and Joe Buzzett. Mr. Harris is the executive director of the National Armaments Consortium. Mr. Buzzett is NAC's Executive Committee Chair.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 Supreme Court securities case has frozen animal welfare enforcement across thousands of labs The National Armaments Consortium is gearing up for 2026 with fresh direction and a focus on armaments innovationSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USDA issued just five Animal Welfare Act fines in the 14 months after the Supreme Court's SEC v. Jarkesy decision, down from 63 in the prior period. Federal News Network's Eric White spoke with Animal Welfare Institute attorneys Ashley Ridgway and Joanna Makowska to understand what a securities fraud case has to do with animal protection enforcement.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A government watchdog is sounding the alarm about a growing national security threat, one that comes from the everyday digital traces service members and their families leave online. A new Government Accountability Office report warns that publicly accessible data from social media posts and location tracking to routine Defense Department press releases can be pieced together by bad actors to identify military personnel and disrupt military operations. GAO says the Pentagon has taken some steps to address the threat, but its efforts remain scattered and lack coordination. For more, Federal News Network's Anastasia Obis spoke with Joe Kirschbaum, director of the defense capabilities and management team at GAO.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A federal union is suing the Bureau of Prisons over the recent cancelation of its collective bargaining agreement. The lawsuit comes after BOP ended its contract in September, arguing that the union had become an "obstacle to progress." The American Federation of Government Employees is now alleging that the agency's decision violated the law. 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.

Smart tax planning happens in November, not April. Private wealth advisor Thiago Glieger explains why federal employees earning over $145,000 face a major TSP catch-up contribution change in 2026 and how borrowing from TSP beats credit cards during financial hardship, and what tax-saving strategies can reduce next year's bill.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Imagine entering the Carousel of Progress at Disney World, but instead of showing you the possibilities of life in the future, it showed you what a government of the future may look like. That's the aim of The Future State Initiative. In collaboration with the Federation of American Scientists, it conducted an exercise imagining what the U.S. government should look like in 2050. Federal News Network's Eric White spoke with Loren DeJonge Schulman, Senior Advisor for Government Capacity at the Federation of American Scientists.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The group Disabled American Veterans is stepping up with a nationwide virtual job fair on November 25 and its next Patriot Boot Camp for veteran entrepreneurs in February 2026. These initiatives aim to help veterans and military families find meaningful work and build thriving businesses. Here with more on these two programs is Dan Clare, DAV’s Chief Communications & Outreach Officer.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 What if we stopped fixing government at the margins and redesigned it from scratch? Two big opportunities are on the horizon for veterans, one to land a job, another to launch a business When paychecks stop and tax season looms, what moves should federal employees make?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A bipartisan bill that would end the Trump administration's rollback of collective bargaining rights for most federal employees is guaranteed to get a full House vote now that the majority of lawmakers support it. A group of 218 lawmakers have signed on to a discharge petition that would force a floor vote. A Republican lawmaker co-sponsored the bill, and two other Republican lawmakers helped get this bill moving. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman is here 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 Federal Communications Commission is set to reverse cyber security rules for telecommunications providers. The Commission will meet Thursday to rescind requirements that were put in place following the Salt Typhoon hacks. 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.

A recent decision from the Federal Communications Commission has the nation's public libraries concerned. It had to do with a program aimed at providing publicly available high speed broadband internet, particularly in rural areas. However a recent vote by the agency ends its support of the program. For a look at how public libraries will look to adjust, we welcome Sam Helmick, President of the American Libraries Association. 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 Cytactic shows that 70% of security leaders say internal misalignment creates more disruption than the threat actor itself. From unrehearsed plans to unclear authority, organizations are struggling to respond effectively even with strong tech in place. Josh Ferenczi, Head of Strategy at Cytactic, explains what leaders should do now to close the readiness gap.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 When the hotspots go dark, who connects the unconnected? When a cyberattack hits, breakdowns inside the organization may be as dangerous as the hackers themselvesThis firm is using employee ownership and AI to stay ahead in federal contractingSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Saalex started as a small business with big ambitions. Today, it’s a mid-market federal contractor betting on innovation, agility, and shared ownership to thrive in a fast-changing government landscape. Chairman and CEO Travis Mack shares how the company scaled up and why an AI-first culture is central to its future in this episode of "Government Contractors to Watch" sponsored by JP Morgan Chase. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Last week's conclusion of the record breaking government shutdown was great news for federal employees in general, but for a few thousand feds, it was even better news. They'd been told they were about to lose their jobs completely, and those positions are now safe. That's thanks to a provision of the legislation that undid reductions in force that happened during the shutdown. Recent court documents shed more light on exactly how many employees the Trump administration tried to fire during that timeframe. Federal News Network's Jared Serbu is here with more details on what we learned from those tallies. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Defense Logistics Agency may have solved two problems. Every agency tends to struggle with attracting new and innovative companies and changing the culture of its workforce to work with those companies. DLA's tech accelerator team has shown over the last several years that it can use private sector methods to take an agile approach to solving problems, using interviews, data and market research. For more on the tech accelerator team, Federal News Network's executive editor Jason Miller, talked with David Koch, the Director of Research and Development at the Defense Logistics Agency.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The nation's waterways may have some more reckless driving on them. Among the Trump administration's cuts to government spending, the Coast Guard planned to cut funding for boating safety grants to states and non profits. To find out what this could mean for the maritime community and to get a little more insight into how they work, Federal News Network's Eric White spoke with David Kennedy, Government Affairs Manager for the boat insurance company, BoatUS.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 What keeps recreational boaters safe, and what happens if the funding dries up? Now that the shutdown is over, contracting officers have a lot to catch up on Can digital engineering cut a decade-long test program in half?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Contracting officers and contractors are facing a mosaic of updates, everything from FAR deviations to new DoD priorities like speed and portfolio-based acquisition. Emily Murphy, Senior Fellow at the Baroni Center for Government Contracting at George Mason University, is here with advice on how 1102s and businesses can keep it all straight while dealing with increasing workloads. 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 racing to field a prototype assault aircraft by early 2027 that flies twice as fast and twice as far as the Black Hawk. Colonel Jeffrey Poquette and Bell's Ryan Ehinger explained to Federal News Network's Jared Serbu how 215 flight hours on the V-280 Valor demonstrator proved tilt rotor technology works, why maintainers with virtual toolboxes are fixing design problems before metal gets cut, and how digital twins for every aircraft will slash 70% of lifecycle costs typically spent on sustainment.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As Congress works to finalize the fiscal 2026 defense policy bill, Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren is calling out a leading industry group for trying to block bipartisan right to repair efforts that would give soldiers the ability to fix their own equipment. Federal News Network's Anastasia Obis is here to help us sort it out. 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 looking to hire thousands of federal law enforcement personnel as part of expanded immigration enforcement efforts. But the courts handling these cases aren't seeing the same surge in resources. Several immigration judges recently fired by the Justice Department say the court system is losing staff and it's unable to address a multi million case backlog. 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.

From back pay delays to contractor backlogs, agencies face a cascade of challenges as they restart operations. Bill Hoagland, senior vice president at the Bipartisan Policy Center, has seen shutdowns and recoveries before. He's here to explain what it takes to restore continuity and prepare for the next funding deadline.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

ERT’s legacy in space and Earth science is evolving under CEO Mark Lee. His strategy blends innovation, infrastructure, and collaboration to position the company for complex federal projects. Lee shares how ERT is scaling without compromising the mission in this episode of "Government Contractors to Watch" sponsored by JP Morgan Chase. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After weeks of gridlock, the government is open, but scars from the shutdown remain and the clock is ticking toward January 30. Lawmakers face a packed agenda, from appropriations to hearings and a health care vote, with little room to avoid another showdown. Joining us with the outlook is 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 What really happens in a shutdown and what does it really take to reopen the government?This federal contractor is reinventing itself by shifting from services to solutionsThe lessons lawmakers took from the shutdown, and what they have to do before funding runs out again on January 30th.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 contractors today are watching their inboxes, waiting for a message from their agency customers that their invoices for work done over the last two months have been accepted. Many of those bills are more than 30 days old, triggering interest payments due to the companies. At least one veteran owned HUBZone firm has about $20 million in outstanding invoices that are now more than 30 days old. Federal News Network's executive editor Jason Miller joins me to discuss why agencies now face a new challenge with the shutdown ending, complying with the Prompt Payment Act. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The bill that reopened the government also includes a temporary extension of a landmark cyber information law, the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015 expired on October 1. Now it's in force again, at least until January 30. Federal News Network's Justin Doubleday joins me with more on what could be a complicated reauthorization path for CISA 2015.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The FAR Council eliminated a third of commercial contracting clauses, streamlined registration, and rewrote major acquisition rules in a summer; all released just before the shutdown. Now agencies are adopting the revolutionary FAR overhaul at different speeds, leaving contractors navigating a patchwork of new procedures while dealing with expiring contracts and furloughed contracting officers. Former GSA Administrator Emily Murphy breaks down what's actually revolutionary about these changes, why vendors must comment on what works (not just what doesn't), and the hard choices contractors face when deciding whether to extend work at their own risk during the lapse. 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 When the FAR gets a revolutionary overhaul and the government shuts down, who's reading the fine print? Army personnel leaders are pushing hard to modernize how the service manages its people.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From digitizing pay and HR processes to professionalizing recruiters and accelerating policy change, Army personnel leaders are pushing hard to modernize how the service manages its people. Lieutenant General Brian Eifler, Army G-1, and Sergeant Major Christopher Stevens met me at the AUSA conference to discuss how technology and leadership are shaping retention, readiness, and the future of the total force.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A spending deal to end the longest government shutdown also keeps some agencies funded through the end of the fiscal year. That includes the Department of Veterans Affairs, which is still going through an agency reorganization. Lawmakers have included language that ensures the VA doesn't shed too many employees. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman is here with more insight. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For years, the Cyber CORPS Scholarship for Service program has provided agencies with a steady pipeline of cyber talent, but now the program is at a crossroads as Cyber CORPS students struggle to find work amid the ongoing federal hiring freeze, many are now facing the prospect of having to pay back their scholarship. Federal News Network's Justin Doubleday joins me with more info on this situation. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Small businesses funded through the SBIR program have developed drugs generating $36 billion in annual sales; treating everything from Hodgkin's lymphoma to breast cancer. Now, nearly two months into the program's lapse, those cash-strapped innovators face mounting uncertainty as solicitations freeze and funding disappears. Jere Glover of the Small Business Technology Council joins us 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.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton It’s time to reauthorize the Small Business Innovation Research Program What happens when the small business pipleline for lifesaving drugs goes dark? The Army is updating its missile defense strategy and shifting command focus to better protect the homelandSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Army is realigning its missile defense forces to prioritize homeland protection, placing two key commands under Space and Missile Defense Command. I spoke with Lieutenant General Sean Gainey, commander of Army's Space and Missile Defense Command, at this year's AUSA conference to understand how this shift fits into a broader strategy that includes space operations, a new MOS, and lessons from today’s global conflicts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The SBIR program channels federal R&D funding to small businesses with high-risk, high-reward technologies, fueling innovation in areas like defense, health, and energy. Some groups want to pair that reauthorization with reforms to improve oversight and commercialization. Here with one set of proposals is Eric Blatt, Executive Director of the Alliance for Commercial Technology in Government and a partner at Scale LLP.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Defense Acquisition System as you know it, is dead. That's according to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who promised to completely change how the Pentagon does business. Federal News Network's Anastasia Obis is here with more of the details.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 scrapped this year's Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey. That's the government's signature assessment of trends in the federal workforce. But in the absence of FEVS, a new opportunity has emerged for federal employees to make their voices heard. Federal News Network's Drew Friedman got more from experts at the Partnership for Public Service, which has just launched its first ever public service Viewpoint Survey. Michelle LaMonte is Senior Vice President of government programs, and Max Steyer is the partnership's president and CEO. 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 laid out a plan last week to overhaul weapons acquisition in his “Arsenal of Freedom” speech to industry leaders. Each service branch has two months to propose changes aimed at speeding development. For insight into what this means for contractors, we turn to 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.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Shutdowns are driving federal workers to pick up side hustles The Army is racing to modernize its industrial base to stay ready for tomorrow’s fight The Pentagon wants faster weapons and it's giving industry just 60 days to help make it happenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From printed circuit boards to drone assembly, the Army’s organic industrial base is evolving to meet future combat needs. Colonels Brett Ayvazian and James Crocker from Army Materiel Command say modernization is underway, but aging infrastructure and supply chain fragility remain key challenges. They joined me at AUSA's annual conference to discuss the situation.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shutdowns are prompting a major mindset shift among federal workers, with many turning to side hustles for financial relief and some planning to stick with them long-term. But federal employment rules around outside work are strict, and missteps can carry serious consequences. Here to explain what’s driving the change and what workers need to know before picking up a second job is Novo Constare, CEO of Indeed Flex.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Increased access to fertility treatment has been brought to the forefront, with even the White House now announcing that it has conducted negotiations to bring the price of IVF down. However, there's a segment of the population that may need even more help getting the care they need, military families. We're now joined by Dr. Michael Wittenberger, a reproductive endocrinologist and Navy veteran with a lot of experience in treating veterans and military families. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal employee unions are suing the Trump administration for including a new essay question on most job applications. One of the questions asks candidates how they plan to advance the Trump administration's priorities. Plaintiffs in the lawsuit say that amounts to a loyalty test for the nonpartisan civil service 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.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton The shutdown creates an employment law minefield for federal contractors Open Season starts today, and feds face rising premiums and tough choices on coverage Signs of movement in shutdown negotiations on the HillSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal employees are experiencing disruptions in the workplace at a rate nearly three times the national average. Close to one-third of federal employees say their workplace has been disrupted to a very large extent this year, according to new data from Gallup. For more on the latest findings, Federal News Network's Drew Friedman spoke with a Gallup director and Senior Consultant, Camille Lloyd.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the shutdown stretches on, federal contractors face growing wage and hour risks, from delayed payments to potential violations of labor law. Employers trying to do the right thing may still stumble into legal trouble. Here to explain how contractors can protect themselves and what organizations should be doing to stay compliant is Co-Chair of the Employment + Labor Practice at Morrison and Foerster, Andrew Turnbull.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Last week's signs of movement seem to have hit a stop sign over the weekend. The House remains in recess. Regardless of the impacts on air travel, SNAP benefits, and military pay, Senate Democrats are holding firm on their demands, and Republicans are equally resolute in their positions, Here with more details on the shutdown negotiations is Maeve Sheehey, congressional reporter 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.

Open Season kicks off today. Federal employees and retirees are facing another round of double-digit premium hikes, shifting plan defaults, and new coverage options. Here to explain what’s changing and how to avoid paying for coverage you don’t need is John Hatton from NARFE.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The decision by the Federal Aviation Administration to reduce air traffic by 10% across 40 high volume markets beginning this morning, isn't just a reaction to the now longest partial government shutdown ever. FAA is seeing the strain on air traffic controllers who are starting to call out sick more often. A new Federal News Network pulse poll finds FAA employees aren't the only ones working without pay that may be calling out sick or taking part in a sick out if this shutdown continues deep into November. Federal News Network's executive editor Jason Miller joins me now to discuss what we found in our latest survey. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Like the other military services, the Army has now recovered from the recruiting challenges it faced over the last several years. But even during the peak of those problems, a bright spot was that retention stayed strong. Now the Army is trying to capitalize on that strength by thinking more carefully about which soldiers it keeps and where. As Federal News Network's Jared Serbu reports, the Service wants to retain its soldiers in the fields where they're most needed, focus its retention efforts more on officers and put an emphasis on quality over quantity.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 Cuts to U.S. emergency food aid are straining global relief efforts and reshaping how the State Department handles humanitarian crises New CMMC rules take effect Monday, with contractors facing unclear thresholds, shifting clauses, and real risks to eligibilitySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Starting Monday, some Defense contracts will require verified cybersecurity compliance under new CMMC rules. But contractors face murky thresholds, shifting clause language, and real risks to eligibility. For the details on the changes, Federal News Network's Jared Serbu spoke with Dan Ramish, 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.

One of the first major cuts from the Department of Government Efficiency hit the U.S. Agency for International Development. About 85% of its programs were eliminated, and the rest, including emergency food aid, were folded into the State Department. That food aid program has long had bipartisan support, but the transition hasn’t been seamless. Federal News Network's Eric White recently spoke with Vincent Smith from the American Enterprise Institute to explore the program's growing pains.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Pentagon leaders came under fire Tuesday for quietly reorganizing part of the Defense Department's policy office without notifying Congress. Federal News Network's Anastasia Obis is here 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 Office of Personnel Management is hinting at some upcoming initiatives aiming to bring more tech talent into the federal workforce. At the same time, OPM says it's looking to improve early career recruitment and focus more on applicant skill sets rather than job titles. But OPMs big hiring goals also come after hundreds of thousands of feds have left their jobs this year. 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 government shutdown is rippling through the world of intellectual property. To find out which parts of the IP system remain lit, and which have gone dark, Federal News Network's Eric White spoke with Jarom Kesler, a partner with Knobbe Martens.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the current shutdown tops the 35-day record of 2018-2019, the impact on the federal workforce grows. The administration has signaled it may withhold back pay from furloughed employees and proceed with mass reductions in force, despite clear legal protections. Attorney Heidi Burakiewicz breaks down the Anti-Deficiency Act amendments, ongoing litigation in California courts, and what federal employees facing RIF notices need to know about their rights and legal recourse. 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 Where the government shutdown is affecting intellectual property Melwood is proving that inclusive employment can thrive When the government shuts down, who protects federal workers' paychecks and their jobs? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Melwood has been a pioneer in disability employment for nearly 60 years. Today, the organization supports workers at more than 60 federal sites, delivers tailored vocational services, and partners with researchers and agencies to expand opportunities for neurodivergent talent. Here to share how Melwood’s model continues to evolve and what it means for the future of inclusive work is President and CEO Larysa Kautz.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Pentagon Cyber Security Maturity Model certification is less than a week away from becoming an official acquisition rule. Now the Defense Department's lead Small Business Office is polling companies about their readiness to meet the CMMC requirements for more on CMMC finally becoming a reality 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 vast majority of employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs are still working during the government shutdown, and most are being paid on time through advanced appropriations. Even so, tens of thousands of VA employees are not getting paid right now because they're either furloughed or working without pay. Veteran Service Organizations say that the shutdown has also limited their services to veterans. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman has been covering this.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With the 11th shutdown of the U.S. government since 1976 underway, the economic ramifications are being felt all over. For some analysis on some of the most affected areas, we welcome Chip Lugo, an analyst with WalletHub.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Employees of the government, and the companies agencies work with are both feeling the strain of this ongoing shutdown. Now, one industry group is asking Congressional leaders to lessen the financial blow the best they can. Federal Drive host Terry Gerton spoke with Jim Carroll earlier this week, who is the Executive Director 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 GertonWhere the shutdown is having the biggest impact geographically speaking Financial tips from a retired fed who's seen his share of shutdowns When a shutdown impacts mission, how does industry hold on when contractors are left unpaidSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Well here we are again. A government shutdown that doesn't appear to be ending any time soon, and federal strain is abound. With many employees furloughed, or even being laid off due to the shutdown, they're looking at all options to pay their bills. We thought we'd speak with someone who's been down this road before and can give some tips for getting through it. We welcome back to the program Abe Grungold, former federal employee and founder of AG Financial Services.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Though many federal employees have been through shutdowns in the past, a significant majority say things are very different this time. Around about 70% of respondents to a recent Federal News Network survey say the current shutdown feels much less certain than usual. Some survey takers also say the Trump administration's recent actions have only built on the challenges feds have faced this year. Here with more on the survey results 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.

More than 211,000 people have left federal service since January. tens of thousands of employees of contractors are also newly unemployed after the Trump administration cut spending and terminated contracts. In this week's federal report, Federal News Network Executive Editor Jason Miller tells the story of two job seekers and what others can learn from their six month saga. 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 Military pay is once again a pressure point in the shutdown fight A Supreme Court ruling challenges NIH’s authority, leaving public health research in the balance A new retirement system promises modernization, but it’s creating more questions than answersSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Military pay is always front and center of any government shutdown. It can also serve as a motivator to get members of Congress moving before they go too long. On the other side though are the servicemembers themselves, many of whom rely solely on that paycheck to get through their daily lives. To get some insight on the impact this particular shutdown is having on today's military, Federal News Network's Eric White spoke with Jim Whaley, CEO of the nonprofit Mission Roll Call, and a 20 year Army veteran himself.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal employees planning to retire are now navigating ORA, the new online platform replacing OPM’s paper-based process. The system is designed to streamline retirement, but early users are facing delays, confusion, and communication breakdowns. For insight on what’s working and what’s not, Federal News Network’s Eric White spoke with Thiago Glieger, a retirement planning expert at 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 Supreme Court’s partial stay in a case against NIH has left dozens of public health studies in legal limbo. At the center are canceled grants focused on vaccine hesitancy, LGBTQ health, and racial disparities; topics critics say were targeted for political reasons. Here to explain the ruling and its impact on scientific independence are Dr. Susan Polan and Shalini Goel Agarwal. Dr. Polan is associate executive director for public affairs and advocacy with the American Public Health Association. Ms. Agarwal co-leads Protect Democracy’s Free Expression and the Right to Dissent team.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 starting to develop a new National Cyber Security Strategy. Several presidential administrations, including Trump's first, have tried to get their arms around securing US interests in cyberspace, but digital threats to agencies and critical infrastructure have only gotten worse, while artificial intelligence is posing a whole new set of challenges. For more on how the White House is addressing those issues, Federal News Network's Justin Doubleday.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There are a lot of reasons why government shutdowns are harmful. The impact on the nation’s cyber defenses is certainly one of those reasons, but it’s also difficult to measure. We do know that significant percentages of cyber personnel are furloughed, including more than half the staff at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. But for a deeper look at some of the less tangible impacts, we’re joined now by Justin Miller. He’s a former Secret Service special agent who specialized in cyber investigations. He's now an associate professor of cyber studies at the University of Tulsa.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 We'll take a look at what the shutdown means for the nation's cyber defenses A preview of this year's federal employee health benefits open season An update from Capitol Hill as we approach a new government shutdown recordSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If the current lapse in appropriations lasts at least another day and it sure looks like it will this will officially become the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. But, there are at least a few reasons to think the end might be near. To get an update on where things stand and how this might finally end, we’re joined now from Capitol Hill by Mitchell Miller from our partners at WTOP.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Government shutdown or no, it’s almost time for open season under the Federal Employee Health Benefits program. One common thread this year is premiums are going up by about 12.3%. But price isn’t the only thing to consider as you shop around. To help with the planning process, we’re joined by Tammy Flanagan, founder of Retire Federal.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 federal employees are showing up to work and not getting paid on time during the second longest government shutdown. State Department employees who process passports are among those working without pay. That's an unusual step, because that part of the agency is fee funded, and it can normally pay staff on time during a lapse in congressional funds. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman has been covering this issue, and he joins us now 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 Small Business Administration acted in record time to suspend ATI Government Solutions from federal contracting. SBA made the decision the day after a video emerged from the O'Keefe Media Group, a right wing activist organization, showing that an official from ATI admitted to defrauding the SBA is eight a program for more on the broader implications of the ATI suspension. Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins us 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.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry GertonEngaging more social scientists could help government programs work better and deliver more Grant terminations are rising and federal funding recipients may need to head to court Big contract compliance burdens...aren't just a problem for contractorsSee 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 sweeping cuts to federal grants are triggering a wave of legal challenges, especially from nonprofits and research institutions. And more cases are landing in the Court of Federal Claims. Here to explain why, and what funding recipients need to know before they sue is partner at Jenner & 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.

From program design to policy evaluation, social scientists offer methods and insights that could strengthen federal decision-making. But institutional barriers and cultural divides still keep many of them on the sidelines. Joining me to explain what government is missing and how to fix it is the Herbert H. Lehman Professor of Government at Columbia University, Alexander Hertel-Fernandez.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This year, there's been a lot of focus on streamining the Federal Acquisition Regulation as the Trump administration moves through its big FAR overhaul project. But increasingly, the burdens of an overcomplicated acquisition system aren't just an issue for traditional government contractors. It's becoming a bigger and bigger topic for academic institutions too. To dig into that topic, I talked with Aron Beezley. He's the head of the government contracts practice group at the law firm Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With open season just around the corner, rising premiums may be top of mind for enrollees in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program, but there are a number of other changes that employees and annuitants will want to be aware of for Plan Year 2026 that includes several plans entering or leaving FEHB, as well as benefits changes across the government's insurance programs. For more, Federal News Network's Drew Friedman recently sat down with the Director of Marketing and Fundraising at Consumers Checkbook, Kevin Moss. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Environmental Protection Agency is deepening its work with water utilities on cyber security issues. The EPA has recently launched a program to scan for Internet exposed devices at water and wastewater facilities. That work comes amid rising concerns about nation state hackers targeting water systems and other critical infrastructure for more Federal News Network's Justin Doubleday is here. 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 Government Ethics surveys executive branch agencies each year to track common ethics concerns. Intelliworx analyzed the latest results and found that questions about gifts, financial conflicts, and outside work top the list. Here to discuss the findings is business analyst with Intelliworx, John Martin.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We've spent a lot of time over the past month talking about how the government shutdown is affecting executive branch agencies. But it's a big issue for the federal judicial branch too. The Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts recently announced the judiciary has exhausted the funding it needs to keep all court operations up and running. So courts are having to make choices about what activities continue during a shutdown. Nick Boyle is partner at the law firm Latham and Watkins. He's here to talk more about those impacts.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 What do federal employees ask about most when it comes to ethics? A new fraud initiative puts DEI programs under the government’s microscope We'll take a look at some of the shutdown's impacts on the federal judiciarySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Justice Department’s civil rights fraud initiative is putting contractors and grant recipients on notice, with demand letters that raise the stakes for DEI compliance and False Claims Act exposure. The risks are real for firms of all sizes. Here with guidance on how companies can prepare is partner at Proskauer and expert in government contractor employment law, Guy Brenner.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 latest round of federal employee layoffs will remain on hold for now. A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction blocking the administration from carrying out widespread reductions in force for about 4000 employees while the case proceeds through the court. A judge initially put these layoffs on hold in mid October, Federal News Network's Jory Heckman has the latest.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For decades, service members and their families have been exposed to hazardous conditions and privatized military housing. The Change the Air Foundation recently launched what's probably one of the most comprehensive efforts yet to collect data. The Defense Department has never been able to track accurately what military spouses say. It's a survey created by families, for families. For more Federal News Network's Anastasia Obis spoke with Erica Thompson, a military spouse, and the military families liaison for the Change the Air Foundation.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 and Congress are weighing changes that could reshape how the Federal Emergency Management Agency prepares for, responds to, and helps communities recover from disasters. There are quite a few reforms on the table. To help understand them, the Environmental and Energy Study Institute is hosting a Rapid Readout this week to unpack it all. For more info, Federal News Network's Jared Serbu spoke with Daniel Bresette, who is president of the EESI.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From energy efficiency rollbacks to withdrawn FDA rules, the Spring 2025 Unified Agenda marks a sharp turn in federal regulatory priorities. It’s the first formal roadmap of the second Trump administration, and it presents evidence about timing, ambition, and impact across key sectors. I'll break it down with Senior Policy Analyst at the GW Regulatory Studies Center, Sarah Hay.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 Trump administration’s first Unified Agenda is already reshaping federal regulation Trump administration and Congress weigh changes to FEMAA company that went from startup to program-of-the-year winner through AI innovation See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How can newer companies apply innovation to quickly achieve major impact? In this segment of "Government Contractors to Watch" sponsored by JP Morgan Chase, I'll talk with Alexander Granados, CEO of Prescient Edge, about how they deployed AI to drive innovation.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Cyber Security and infrastructure security agency has been sounding the alarm about cyber threats to us critical infrastructure like power and water systems. CISA officials are particularly concerned about hackers targeting so called operational technology or OT systems. Targeting of those systems could pose major health and safety risks. For more on what the agency is doing to combat those threats. Federal News Network's Justin Doubleday spoke with the OT cyber lead at CISA, Matt Rogers.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

About 1.4 million federal employees missed their first full paychecks last week. The financial hit has led one major federal union to say enough is enough, but the missing paychecks are just one of the several converging challenges feds are facing right now. Here with more is Federal News Network's drew Friedman, who is writing about all this in this week's edition of the federal report. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There is word today that some staff at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services are coming back to work this week. In this case, we're talking specifically about the employees who process invoices and payments for government contractors. But even if that happens as planned, they'll be facing a big backlog of work, and that's likely to mean payment delays for vendors. A lot to talk about this week with Stephanie Kostro. 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 framework aims to build a bridge across the defense acquisition valley of deathDOJ has lost over 100 career leaders since January, sparking concerns over its capacity and expertise Yet another way the government shutdown is making things tough for contractorsSee 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 second term has triggered an exodus from the Justice Department. Over 100 senior career officials have departed in just eight months. Civil rights, immigration, and environmental enforcement units are among the most affected, raising alarms about institutional memory and legal capacity. Here with more details and analysis is Bloomberg Law reporter Suzanne Monyak.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 tech pipeline is littered with promising innovations that never make it to the field. MITRE’s new Transition Maturity Framework aims to change that by replacing the slow, siloed acquisition process with a collaborative, data-driven approach. For insight on how this framework could help warfighters—and why it might be a fix for the “ditches of death”—we turn to MITRE’s senior vice president for national security, Keoki Jackson.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 missed their first full paycheck last week as the second longest shutdown continues with no end in sight. Even some shutdown exempt employees are waiting on paychecks that were supposed to arrive. The Food and Drug Administration says some employees are receiving delayed paychecks because of a glitch in its system. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman has been following all this, and he joins us now with more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Current and former federal employees affected by the massive 2015 Office of Personnel Management data breach may be losing their identity protection services in the coming year. IDX, the company providing these services since 2015 sent out emails earlier this month telling recipients of their identity protection services that they would have to renew on their own dime after receiving services for 10 years. Federal News Network's Executive Editor Jason Miller joins me now to tell us what's going on with the contract and the identity protection services. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When the government shuts down, the damage goes far beyond federal payrolls. New contracts stall, supply chains seize up, and small firms face cash flow crises. Here to explain how shutdowns ripple through the industrial base and why the long-term costs may be greater than we think is Director of the Center for the Industrial Base at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Jerry McGinn.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With the government still stuck in limbo, there was some hope that at least those still forced to work during a government shutdown, as well as members of the military could get some relief. However, that legislation too went by the wayside, which means we're back to square one. To find out where things currently stand, we welcome back to the program 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.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry GertonA Supreme Court case could redefine contractor liability in combat zones What a government shutdown really does to the industrial base The Senate dashes the hopes of those still currently working without pay during the government shutdownSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Supreme Court will hear Hencely v. Fluor on November 3, revisiting a decades-old precedent that shields contractors from state-law claims tied to military operations. Here to explain how the combatant activities exception works, and why this case could reshape risk and accountability for contractors in conflict zones is 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.

For years, the Cyberspace Solarium Commission has seen its recommendations adopted by Congress and federal agencies, but for the first time, the Commission's policy proposals are moving backwards under the weight of workforce cuts and other changes across government. 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.

Federal employees are getting a reprieve from the round of reductions in force the Trump administration threatened to impose during the government shutdown this week for a second time, a federal judge extended a temporary restraining order blocking those RIFs to even more federal unions. But we still don't know how many jobs the administration is actually trying to cut, or exactly where Federal News Network's Jared serbo has been following the case, and he joins us now with an update on where things stand.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 former VA Secretary says it’s time for the VA to lead a new era in pain management Certain world events have defense contractors looking for new business outside the U.S. Her work brings clean water and new opportunities to tribal communities across the countrySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lt. Cmdr. Melissa DeVera’s leadership helped deliver billions in sanitation projects to tribal nations, improving access to clean water and public health infrastructure. Her work building partnerships and expanding opportunity earned her a prestigious Flemming Award—and the gratitude of communities she’s served.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

While government spending may be precarious in the U.S. at the moment, that doesn't mean defense companies can't look elsewhere to provide their services. Other countries are entrusting the defense industry more and more. Here to discuss where those firms are finding the most demand, we welcome Daniel Sennott, former Republican staff director for the House Armed Services Committee and now co-leader of Holland & Knight’s National Security and Defense Industry Group, where he is also a partner.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 has phased out alcohol and tobacco from its care model. Now, former VA Secretary Dr. David Shulkin is calling for the agency to become the first opioid-free health system in the country. He joins us to explain why the time is right and how this shift could save lives and reshape veteran care.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 one of the Trump administration's biggest targets for layoffs. That's after the agency has already lost about a quarter of its workforce so far this year. These new layoffs impact mostly human resources and IT personnel now our Department of Government Efficiency Representative says those cuts are necessary to get stalled. It modernization efforts back on track for what all this means. 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.

Enrollees in the government's health insurance programs are bracing for big premium hikes in 2026 it'll be the second year in a row of percentage increases that reach double digits. But not every plan option is going up in cost, and there are some other important factors to consider for the upcoming Open Season for more Federal News Network's Drew Friedman sat down with director of marketing and fundraising at consumers checkbook, Kevin Moss,See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

California’s push to regulate artificial intelligence could reshape national markets and sideline smaller developers. But critics say no single state should dictate the future of AI policy—and that Congress must act now to establish clear standards that protect innovation and prevent a patchwork of conflicting mandates. Here to explain why that matters is Professor Kevin Frazier, AI Innovation and Law Fellow at the University of Texas School of Law.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 Could Nashville hold the key to modernizing the civil service Who sets the rules for AI? It matters more than most people realize A Florida university is building the next generation of intelligence professionals, one hands-on mission at a timeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When considering new ideas for modernizing the federal civil service, look no further than, Nashville. Yes Tennessee’s 2012 civil service reform, while not a perfect match for the federal system, does provide a compelling demonstration that thoughtful reform is possible. The Volunteer State modernized its system with a mix of performance-based policies, updated appeals processes, and a shift in employment presumptions, which created some positive results. Jeff Neal, who is senior vice president of ICF International as well as former chief human capitol officer for the Homeland Security Department, recently analyzed Tennessee's initiative and found some lessons the federal government could learn from it.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 South Florida is turning Tampa Bay into a national security talent hub. Through its Security Training Collaborative, students are gaining real-world experience with agencies like the CIA, FBI, and Secret Service—preparing for high-stakes roles in intelligence and defense. Here to explain how the program works and how it’s reshaping the pipeline to Washington is Managing Director of Security Management International, Luke Bencie.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 eyeing July 4, 2027 to fully launch a new government wide Human Resources system. In a new request for proposals released Friday, OPM details a much more specific plan of action to modernize and centralize 119 distinct core federal human resources systems across the government. For more on the new RFP and OPMs plans. Federal News Network Executive Editor Jason Miller joins me with analysis and details. 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 on a quest to make its bases more energy resilient for a long time. The latest answer, nuclear power. The service is about to ask vendors to submit proposals to install miniature nuclear power stations on nine bases. Officials want to test the feasibility of using them to power critical infrastructure on their installations, as Federal News Network's Jared Serbia reports, they're convinced the technology is ready. 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 GertonAn update on the ongoing lawsuit over the mass firings at the CFPB How federal contractors stay solvent and scale smart once they survive the startup phase How does a legacy defense contractor stay ahead of the curve?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Navigating the shift from government service to government contracting can be financially and operationally overwhelming. From managing cash flow to separating personal and business finances, new contractors face challenges that aren’t always obvious at the start. Offering guidance on how to stay afloat and grow with confidence is Tripp Kelly, a Partner at Socium Advisors.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Staying competitive in a time of rapid changes in analytics, talent, and technology can be tough. In this segment of "Government Contractors to Watch" sponsored by JP Morgan Chase, I'll talk with Rich Sawchak, CEO of Systems Planning and Analysis Inc to find out how he manages the tension.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As we continue our dive into the minutia of ways government shutdowns hinder agency operations, we turn now to the ongoing lawsuit over the mass firings at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau earlier this year. Perhaps no other agency faced as large of a percentage of workforce and budget cuts from the Department of Government Efficiency. Now the government attorneys who have been assigned to defend the moves in court are forced to ask for a delay since they're not allowed to work right now. To get an update on this case and the effect shutdowns have on federal lawsuits overall, we welcome Rich Andreano, a partner at Ballard Spahr.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More than 200,000 federal employees have left government so far this year, voluntarily or otherwise, many of those former Feds officially separated from their agencies and are now planning the next chapter of their lives. In at least a few cases, some of these individuals have decided to run for public office. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman joins me with more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Current and former Federal Emergency Management Agency, employees rallied in front of FEMA headquarters on Friday. They were protesting staffing cuts and other changes at FEMA, they say, make the agency less ready to handle a major disaster for more on Friday's rally, 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 Latest news from the hill concerning furloughed employees backpay Forget blueprints. AI is learning to sketch buildings from scratch, starting with just your words How the SEC and those who work with it are handling the shutdownSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With more layoff notices going out, and no real end in sight for this government shutdown. We thought we would get a quick snapshot on where things currently stand for current, retired, and former federal employees. Earlier I had chance to discuss all of this with John Hatton, Staff Vice President for Policy and Programs at the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As we continue our coverage of the effect that government shutdowns have on different agencies, we now turn to the Securities and Exchange Commission. While the majority of the agency's oversight happens over corporate entities, it is yet another one that seen certain activities put on hold when Congress can't come up with a budget. To hear what those might be, we welcome Cynthia Krus, Partner and Co-Chair of the Global Board at Eversheds Sutherland.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Architects are starting to use AI not just to speed up design, but to rethink how design begins. At Texas A&M, researchers are building tools that turn simple text prompts into immersive 3D building models. Here to explain how those tools work, and where they don't, is Professor of Architecture at Texas A&M University, Dr. Wei Yan.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The concept of DevSecOps has been around long enough that it's now firmly established in most federal agencies, but using it to produce secure software on a regular basis takes careful planning. Darren Death is the Chief Information Security Officer at the Export Import Bank, and Madhuri Sammid is the Deputy Associate Chief Information Officer at the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement. They talked with Federal News Network's Jared serbu As part of our 2025 Cyber Leaders Exchange.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 months long hiring freeze is starting to thaw at least a little bit. A new executive order maintains strict limits on federal recruitment with a handful of exceptions, but now agencies can try to get around that freeze as long as hires are approved by political appointees. Here with the latest to explain it all 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.

From hiring freezes to shifting workforce priorities, federal HR teams are under pressure. But technology may offer a path forward, especially for smaller offices trying to stay ahead. That’s the view of Rick Hammell, founder and CEO of Globalli.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

By this point, the lines have been drawn and it seems as if there may be no end in sight for this government shutdown. That's not only the general consensus, that seems to be the attitude many leaders in Congress are taking as well. To find out the latest and where things currently stand, we welcome back 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.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Some help from a local university to help furloughed feds broaden their horizons during their forced time off With federal HR in flux, smaller teams are finding smarter ways to do more with less We get the latest updates on Congressional inaction regarding the government shutdownSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With many federal employees currently furloughed, American University's School of Public Affairs is a day of free learning and networking opportunities for government employees who have been impacted by the shutdown. It's an idea that was sparked from one of the previous shutdowns, and has garnered some positive feedback. To hear more about this, I had the chance to speak with Alison Jacknowitz Interim Dean of the School of Public Affairs (SPA) at American University. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The anxiety level among federal contractors is starting to rise as the partial government shutdown enters its third week with lawmakers still far apart in how to at least temporarily fund the government, some contractors are implementing austerity measures to help reduce the impact on their bottom line for more on what steps some federal contractors are starting to take. 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.

Agencies are on a tight deadline to address a new and major cyber security vulnerability. The cyber security and infrastructure security agency directed agencies to patch potentially vulnerable F5 devices in an emergency. Directive comes as agencies also navigate reduced staffing during the shutdown. For more on all of this, we bring in Federal News Network's Justin Doubleday. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More than 170 IRS attorneys have withdrawn from Tax Court cases since January, with dozens leaving the agency entirely. That’s slowing litigation, prompting settlements, and weakening the government’s ability to enforce tax laws. Here to explain what this exodus means for corporate accountability is Former Chief, DOJ Tax Division’s appellate section, Gil Rothenberg.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 IRS is losing lawyers, giving companies leverage in court A new DFARS rule could block defense contracts for firms with foreign consulting ties From heart health to health equity, Dr. David Goff is shaping science and inspiring public serviceSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. David Goff leads a $2.1 billion cardiovascular research portfolio at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, driving breakthroughs in maternal health, precision medicine, and inclusive data science. His work has helped set the national research agenda while uplifting the culture of public service. As a 2025 Arthur S. Flemming Award recipient, Dr. Goff joins us to reflect on the science, the service, and what’s next.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 tightening restrictions on who can win consulting contracts. A new DFARS amendment bars awards to firms that also advise certain foreign governments—unless they clear a high bar for conflict mitigation. Here to explain what contractors need to know before the rule takes effect on October 24 is Venable Partner, Diz Locaria.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Military service members are seeing paychecks hit their bank accounts this week after the defense department moved billions to cover military salaries, but it's unclear what legal authority allowed the department to move the funds, raising questions about whether it could violate the Anti Deficiency Act. Federal News Network's Anastasia Obis is here with more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A judge is temporarily blocking the Trump administration from carrying out its latest round of federal employee layoffs at most agencies. Administration officials say RIF notices went out to about 4000 federal employees last Friday. President Donald Trump and senior administration officials say more layoffs could be coming at the end of this week. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman joins me with the latest.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Recent deployments of Guard units to cities like D.C., L.A., and Memphis have raised tough questions about leadership, legality, and long-term impact. From command structure to civil-military relations, former Army Secretary and Congressman Patrick Murphy weighs in on what these missions mean for the Guard—and the country.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 What happens to public trust when the National Guard is deployed to American streets? Shutdown warnings turned into partisan messaging after ethics rules failed to hold the lineSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Common Cause has filed 54 ethics complaints against the Trump administration, citing violations of the Hatch Act, Anti-Deficiency Act, and Anti-Lobbying Act. The filings expose what the group calls a “fragmented, outdated” oversight system unable to confront coordinated abuse. Here to explain the findings and the case for a single, independent watchdog is senior vice president for policy and litigation at Common Cause, Omar Noureldin.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We begin today with the IRS, which has furloughed nearly half its workforce last week and carried out more layoffs. But the agency is telling some shutdown exempt staff that they could also be furloughed if they take too much leave. The IRS is preparing for more changes than usual for next year's filing season, and some employees are worried these changes leave them short staffed. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman has been covering this, and he joins me now 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's new secretary says he's getting ready to completely disrupt the service's acquisition bureaucracy. Secretary Dan Driscoll says the current system has been failing soldiers for decades with cost overruns and slow performance. He says big changes are coming in the next few weeks, including a new, more centralized structure. Details now 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.

The Treasury Department’s SAVE program promises awards for employee-driven cost-cutting ideas, but only if GSA confirms the savings are real and acquisition-compliant. That means contractors should brace for tighter scrutiny of pricing and performance. Here with more analysis of the pros and cons of this program is co-chair of the government contracts practice at McCarter & English, Alex Major.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 Treasury employees could be rewarded for identifying contract savings As mail delays grow, one lawmaker is fighting to protect and reform the Postal Service DOGE’s arrival at Social Security sparked chaos and missed a chance for real reformSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When the Department of Government Efficiency moved into Social Security, it promised modernization. But the focus on splashy headlines missed the opportunity to fix a broken system. Here to explain what really happened and the challenges ahead is Eli Hager, reporter for ProPublica.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From missed prescriptions to overworked carriers, postal service problems are piling up in communities across the country. In Central and Southern Illinois, the Postal Service is a lifeline and calls for reform are growing louder. We hear from the representative leading that charge, co-chair of the Congressional Postal Service Caucus, Rep. Nikki Budzinski.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dozens of Department of Homeland Security employees have received management directed reassignments in recent weeks, the directives are forcing some staff to choose whether to move hundreds of miles away to a new job or face termination. 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.

Federal employees and contractors are feeling the strain as the partial government shutdown drags on, and the toll both personal and financial is mounting. Surviving a shutdown takes planning, adaptability and a clear eyed view of what comes next. So in this week's federal report, Federal News Network's Executive Editor Jason Miller talked to experts to create a federal shutdown Survival Guide. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the government shutdown drags on, missed paychecks, rising health care premiums, and ripple effects across the economy are starting to build pressure on both parties. But no one knows how long it will take before that pressure is strong enough to bring them back to the table. Here to break down the politics, the pain points, and the path forward is deputy news director from 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.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry GertonShutdown news for federal contractors: A new bill and a new rule aim to protect contractors and keep essential work movingMilitary spouses still face high unemployment, despite years of advocacy and policy effortsThe question isn’t whether the shutdown hurts, but when it will hurt enough to force a dealSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new bill would guarantee back pay for contract workers after a shutdown, while a fresh class deviation gives agencies more flexibility to continue essential work even when appropriations lapse. We break down both developments 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.

Despite new legislation and years of advocacy, military spouses still face major hurdles to building portable, sustainable careers. Joining the program to talk about what’s changed, what hasn’t, and how the ongoing 2025 Career Summit fits into the picture is founder and president of the National Military Spouse Network, Sue Hoppin.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 warned of more layoffs in the event of a government shutdown. Now it's following through on that ultimatum. Several agencies began sending reduction in force notices just before the holiday weekend. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman joins me 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.

Federal employees and retirees are headed for yet another year of large increases to their health insurance premiums. The Office of Personnel Management's announcement of the 2026 premiums this week comes just a month ahead of this year's Open Season, but under a government shutdown, some Feds may be feeling more uncertain than usual. 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.

The Cybersecurity and infrastructure Security Agency is hyper focused on its core priorities of defending government networks and critical infrastructure. That's the key message from Nick Anderson, CISA's new Executive Assistant Director for Cybersecurity, Federal News Network's Justin Doubleday spoke with Anderson as part of our Cyber Leaders Exchange 2025.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 has shut down 22 times since 1976, but only a handful lasted long enough to disrupt paychecks. As furloughs stretch on, lessons from past shutdowns offer practical financial strategies to help federal families stay resilient. With advice on managing through uncertainty, here’s 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.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton What past shutdowns can teach federal workers and veterans about navigating the one we’re in now AbilityOne expands economic opportunity for people with significant disabilitiesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The AbilityOne Commission partners with federal agencies to deliver essential services while expanding economic opportunity for people with significant disabilities. As the program evolves, its leaders are working to modernize employment standards and navigate procurement reforms. Here to explain what AbilityOne is and what it isn’t, are Kimberly Zeich, Executive Director of the U.S. AbilityOne Commission, and Robert Hogue, Chairperson of the Commission and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Manpower and Reserve Affairs at the Department of the Navy.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's new view on the government employee fair treatment Act puts shut down compensation for furloughed employees at risk. But many are already pushing back against what they clearly say is the law. 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.

IRS operations were business as usual in the early days of the government shutdown, but with no end in sight for the funding lapse, the agency says it will now have to shutter most of its operations. The agency, however, says that 10s of 1000s of furloughed employees will be paid once the shutdown ends. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman has been covering the story and is here 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 The Deferred Resignation Program left federal workers confused, and many still don’t have answers It sounds like the start of a sci-fi thriller: nuclear reactors on the moon Quantum computing...it's still confusing, but now it's mission-criticalSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Deferred Resignation Program reshaped the federal workforce, but not without turbulence. As the September 30 deadline passed, many employees were still unsure about their status, next steps, and legal exposure. Here to help us to sort through the aftermath and explain what former feds need to watch for now is Managing Partner at Tully Rinckey, Michael Fallings.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Quantum computing might be the most powerful tool we barely understand but Booz Allen’s partnership with SEEQC is betting big on its future. By tackling the engineering hurdles, they’re aiming to unlock breakthroughs in national security, material science, and beyond. Here to explain how quantum could change everything in the next decade… even if no one can quite explain why it works is Booz Allen's CTO, Bill Vass See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

NASA and the Department of Energy are exploring nuclear power as a way to support long-term missions on the moon by 2030. Here to explain why what sounds like science fiction matters and how it works is CEO of NANO Nuclear Energy, James Walker.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the 2025 government shutdown drags on, military families across the country are bracing for its fallout to better understand how the funding lapse is affecting the military community. Blue Star Families conducted a quick poll last week, and the results paint a concerning picture from worries about delayed paychecks to fears of dipping into savings or visiting food banks. Federal News Network's Anastasia Obis spoke to Blue Star family's Chief Impact Officer, Lindsay Knight.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 doubling down on threats to lay off 1000s of federal employees if Congress doesn't end the government shutdown soon, but it's yet to deliver on its ultimatum, and meanwhile, one agency is doing the opposite, bringing back laid off employees to work and keeping them on the job during the shutdown. 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.

As federal agencies scale back and the CISA Act expires, cybersecurity experts warn that the U.S. is more vulnerable than ever. Staffing gaps that slow threat response and weaken coordination are creating openings for adversaries. Here to explain what’s at risk, and how states can step up as federal support falters is the former CISO of the city of Seattle, Mike Hamilton.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal, state, and local agencies are preparing for the most complex security challenge in modern U.S. history. But outdated systems and a lack of coordination could put citizens at risk. Here to explain how to improve the national playbook is Senior VP of Law Enforcement and Homeland Security at Booz Allen, Carl Ghattas.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 shutdown and CISA lapse expose new cracks in America’s cyber defenses The World Cup and America’s 250th are colliding into one massive public safety test A new TSP option brings opportunity and tax risk. Smart conversions require careful planningSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Starting in January 2026, TSP participants will be able to convert traditional funds to Roth accounts within the plan. It’s a powerful new option that could boost long-term returns...but it also comes with immediate tax consequences and requires careful planning. Certified financial planner Art Stein is here to walk us through 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.

Kevin Rhodes is officially in place to lead the overhaul of federal acquisition Rhodes, who has been serving as senior advisor at OMB since February, got the approval from the Senate to lead the Office of Federal Procurement Policy late last week. For more on why the confirmation of Rhodes comes at a key time. 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.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered the military services to overhaul the inspector general complaint process, a move that legal experts say violates the law protecting the watchdog's independence. Federal News Network's Anastasia Obis reports See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the shutdown enters its second week, contractors are navigating uncertainty around staffing, deliverables, and compliance. The Professional Services Council is offering strategic guidance, including checklists for stop work orders and terminations, and sharing insights from its recent meetings with White House leaders. Here with the details is PSC CEO Jim Carroll.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 DC’s new Talent Capital platform is turning disruption into opportunity for displaced workers The shutdown is hitting differently across the contractor community Staffing cuts and legal setbacks limit USDA's ability to ensure animal welfareSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Staffing shortfalls and ballooning oversight duties are straining the USDA’s ability to enforce the Animal Welfare Act. A Supreme Court ruling now blocks the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service from issuing fines despite repeated violations, and outsourcing inspections isn't a good option. Here to break down the impact is Director of the Animal Law and Policy Institute at Vermont Law and Graduate School, Delcianna Winders.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As federal workforce reductions ripple through the region, the District is launching a bold response. The Talent Capital initiative offers AI-powered job matching, free training, and regional coordination to help residents rebuild and thrive. Here to explain how DC is investing in resilience and reshaping its economic future is Deputy Mayor for Education, Paul Kihn.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

An awful lot of agencies are trying to add AI skills to their workforces. The Marine Corps now has a very specific way to do that. The Marines are starting a new fellowship with the Naval Postgraduate School that builds on the Marines AI strategy, aiming to accelerate AI research and build AI talent in the Marine Corps. Dr Christopher Paul is the US Marine Corps chair for information at the Naval Postgraduate School. He talked about this program with 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.

It's been a muted start to Cyber Security Awareness Month. Many government cyber staff are furloughed under the ongoing shutdown, and key cyber information sharing authorities have lapsed, leaving cyber experts on edge for more Federal News Network's Justin Doubleday is here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Congress skipped weekend votes, signaling no quick end to the shutdown. Some hope that having the House back in session may change the dynamic of discussions this week. We'll get more insight from 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.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton The House is back in session, will that change the shutdown dynamics? A watchdog that helps root out federal waste is facing its own shutdown At this year’s AUSA convention, it’s all about global partnerships, education, and mission readinessSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The annual Association of the United States Army conference goes on, shutdown or not. From celebrating the Army’s 250th birthday to strengthening ties with allies, this year’s AUSA convention is marking milestones and focusing on the future. The event blends education, innovation, and strategy to help the Army meet its mission worldwide. That’s the message from the President and CEO of AUSA, GEN Bob Brown ahead of the gathering.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

While most eyes are on the broader government shutdown, the Office of Management and Budget plans to zero out FY2026 funding for the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, CIGIE. That move could cripple oversight coordination across more than 70 agencies and shutter public access to whistleblower tools and investigations. Joining us to unpack the implications is director of structural democracy at the Bipartisan Policy Center, Michael Thorning.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 now on day three of a government shutdown, but in the days leading up to the lapse in appropriations this week, some feds gathered in downtown D.C. to push back against the Trump administration. When the threat of a government shutdown was inching closer, the employees had a clear message for the White House. Federal News Network's Drew Friedman was at that gathering earlier this week, and she files this report.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 warned of layoffs across the federal workforce if a government shutdown occurred. So far, only one agency has actually done that. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office sent reduction in force notices to some of its employees on day one of the shutdown as part of an agency reorganization. Top administration officials say there's more to come. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman is here with more detail. 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 GertonFederal downsizing is reshaping the DC region’s economy in ways local leaders can’t ignoreA freshman congressman finds his footing in Fairfax County amid federal job cuts and the shutdownA global legal coalition forms to defend judges, and democracy, from rising threatsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The D.C. region is showing troubling signs of economic strain. Unemployment is rising, venture capital is drying up and home listings have surged by 64%. Brookings’ new DMV Monitor tracks these shifts in real time and flags the federal government’s retreat as a key driver. Here to break down the data and explore how local leaders can respond before temporary disruption becomes permanent change is non-resident senior fellow at Brookings, Amy Liu.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal judges are facing a surge in threats — from bomb scares and swatting to coordinated harassment — that’s beginning to shape courtroom decisions and discourage judicial candidates. Here with a warning about what that could mean for legal independence is founder of the Speak Up for Justice initiative, Paul Kiesel.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The government shutdown is now in its third day, and Northern Virginia is already feeling the strain. Congressman James Walkinshaw is just one month into representing Fairfax County as federal job cuts and economic uncertainty ripple through the region. He joins us to share what he’s hearing from constituents, how he’s approaching the crisis and what this moment reveals about the future of federal work in the DMV.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the government shutdown begins, Maryland faces immediate fallout: furloughs, economic strain and threats of mass firings under the Trump administration’s downsizing agenda. Here to talk about what this means for federal workers, local businesses and the region’s future is Congressman Glenn Ivey, representing Maryland's 4th district.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Nearly half of Defense Department civilian workers could be furloughed during this government shutdown – at least, according to the Pentagon's contingency plan released over the weekend. Federal News Network's Anastasia Obis is here with more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Most federal employees don’t think about unemployment insurance until a shutdown forces them to. With outdated systems and confusing eligibility rules, navigating support can be slow and frustrating. Here to walk through what furloughed workers need to know is Senior Fellow at the National Academy of Social Insurance, Michele Evermore.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Many federal agencies are not updating their websites through the government shutdown, but critical online services like weather updates will still continue during the funding lapse. For more on how the shutdown impacts the federal government's online presence, I'm joined by Federal News Network's Justin Doubleday.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The shutdown reflects more than missed deadlines. It’s the result of years of executive overreach, weakened oversight and a funding process that’s lost its guardrails. Here to explain how these shifts have eroded trust and what it will take to restore transparency and accountability is the Project On Government Oversight's Director of the Effective and Accountable Government Program, Faith Williams.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 GertonWith the shutdown underway, federal workers brace for furloughs and financial strainFurloughed feds may need unemployment help they never expected to useA lack of transparency and trust got us to the shutdown. What will get us out?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The latest White House memo on shutdown planning signals more than temporary disruption. It introduces the possibility of permanent job losses and a shift in executive power. If this approach becomes precedent, it could redefine how Congress and the White House negotiate the federal budget and exercise constitutional authority. Here to explain is professor emeritus at the University of Maryland and former dean of its School of Public Policy, Don Kettl.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 The Federal Drive with Terry GertonAs federal workers face uncertainty, one retiree is sending a heartfelt thank you... through musicWhen shutdowns become weapons, the damage goes far beyond the budgetBillion-dollar disasters are increasing and FEMA’s workforce may not be ready to respondSee 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 federal employees won't be coming into work on day one of a government shutdown, but the IRS says it will keep all of its employees working for a few days during the funding lapse. That's thanks to billions in multi-year modernization funds that Congress keeps clawing back. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman is here with more detail. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Agencies are being allowed to continue any work related to reductions in force, even during a government shutdown. That's according to guidance the Office of Personnel Management published over the weekend. OPM's update comes as the Trump administration is encouraging agencies to conduct even more RIFs. Here with more on this 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.

Recent hurricanes, wildfires and floods have overwhelmed federal disaster response systems, with FEMA operating at a fraction of its staffing capacity. The GAO warns that workforce reductions and undertrained surge responders could jeopardize future recovery efforts. Here to explain the risks and what needs to change is director of Homeland Security and Justice at GAO, Christopher Currie.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Whether it’s the first day of a new fiscal year or the start of a government shutdown, the contributions of federal employees deserve recognition. Michael Perel spent nearly four decades at the Department of Transportation and now, in retirement, he’s using creativity and community service to honor the public servants who keep the country running. Michael joins me now to share his message and his music.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Even if the Democrats got everything they're asking for in their proposed continuing resolution, it only kicks the CR can down the road for a few weeks and we could find ourselves right back to shutdown talk. Here to talk about the political and institutional issues driving the current funding standoff is senior fellow in Governance Studies at Brookings, Molly Reynolds.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 issues driving the shutdown showdown are about more than moneyFederal retirement meets shutdown risk on the same day — what could go wrong?Federal contractors are bracing for impact as a government shutdown loomsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Until very recently, when many of the Navy Department's parts and other materials were removed from units that no longer needed them, those items tended to sit in storage without much visibility until they were eventually turned over to be disposed of as excess government property. But that's changed significantly in recent years, thanks to the Naval Supply Systems Command's Consumable Asset Reutilization Program, or CARP. NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center in San Diego has been able to rescue and redirect 116,000 items, saving the government almost $14 million so far by reutilizing assets it already owns. Robert Medina is the deputy director for the CARP program's nearby Ventura County site, and Doug Murphy is the material management and warehouse utilization product and service lead. They talked about it with 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.

The Deferred Resignation Plan promised a smoother exit for federal employees. But with September 30 landing on the edge of a shutdown, that promise is under pressure. Retirement processing delays, furloughed HR staff and a surge in last-minute applications could leave some workers in a pay gap. Here to explain what’s at stake for DRP participants and other would-be retirees is principal with Retire Federal, Tammy Flanagan.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With a shutdown deadline fast approaching, questions are mounting about which contracts will be paused, who will be furloughed and how the government’s contractor workforce should prepare. The ripple effects could hit everything from IT services to facility support, especially in agencies without full-year funding. We get perspective from 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.

While a shutdown is looming, one federal department is positioned to have a lot of funding no matter the outcome of congressional negotiations. This week, the Department of Homeland Security has more than $150 billion to spend from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act signed over the summer, and federal contractors are following the money and positioning themselves to contribute to DHS's mission. 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.

A federal court finds President Donald Trump unlawfully fired agency watchdogs just days after taking office, but none of the inspectors general he fired are getting their jobs back. The judge says Trump didn't follow procedure, but also says presidents have broad authority to fire the IGs. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman joins me now 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 Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is ordering federal civilian agencies to take immediate action against a widespread hacking campaign targeting Cisco firewalls. The emergency directive was issued last Thursday in response to zero day vulnerabilities that hackers have been exploiting for quite some time. Federal News Network's Anastasia. Obis 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.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Hackers used a fake congressional email to breach federal systems and exploit trust One local union is taking action to prevent suicide among federal correctional officers Is there any way out of the shutdown cul-de-sac?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and AFGE Local 4070 is launching a new initiative to protect the mental health of corrections officers on the front lines. Here with a message of urgency and hope is president of the local union and a driving force behind the effort, Jon Zumkehr.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With just 48 hours until a possible government shutdown, lawmakers are weighing more than budget math. The White House’s threat of a government-wide reduction in force has scrambled negotiations, while President Trump’s refusal to meet with Democrats has hardened partisan lines. For insight on what’s still in play—and what’s already off the table—we turn to 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.

Hackers recently impersonated Rep. John Moolenaar in a phishing email aimed at federal systems. The attack exposed how emotional manipulation and outdated protections continue to undermine cybersecurity. Yejin Jang, Vice President, Government Affairs at Abnormal AI, joins us to explain what 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.

The Space Force is launching a first of its kind training program for acquisition officers. The qualification training course is not only designed for early career acquisition officers, but also provides a pathway for operators transitioning into acquisition roles Federal News Network's Anastasia Obis 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.

Customs and Border Protection is embarking on a historic hiring drive over the next four years. The one big, beautiful Bill Act includes funding for CBP to hire 5000 new customs officers and 3000 Border Patrol agents to learn more about how CBP is moving out on this recruiting push federal news networks. Justin Doubleday spoke with CBP Assistant Commissioner Andrea bright and Senior Advisor Ron Vitello.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 volunteer network steps up for departing IRS staff GenAI is pushing federal leaders to define the human core of every job Quantum computing could scale faster by linking imperfect chips into stronger systemsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new study from UC Riverside shows how linking smaller quantum chips can build larger, more reliable systems even when those connections aren’t flawless. The breakthrough could help scale quantum computing faster than expected, without waiting for perfect hardware. Mohamed Shalby, the study’s lead author, explains how this shift could reshape the future of computing.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 being urged to rethink every job in terms of what only humans can do. A new report for the IBM Center for the business of government maps how GenAI could reshape the federal workforce...not by replacing it but by forcing agencies to define and protect the judgment, creativity, and interpersonal skills that machines can’t replicate. Here with more details is the report's lead author, Chair and Professor in the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies at Georgia State University, Bill Resh.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the IRS prepares to cut thousands of jobs, many employees are facing an uncertain future. A retired IRS employee has launched a volunteer network to help them find their footing, offering free career coaching, resume help, and emotional support to those navigating life after government service. Here to share more about this Career Support For You is its creator, Perry DiToto.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal employees and agencies are bracing for potential government shutdown. Lawmakers have just days to reach a spending agreement with no clear path in sight to avoid a funding lapse. Federal News Network's Drew Friedman joins me now with more on what a shutdown would mean for federal employees.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As agencies figure out how to obligate funds before the fiscal year ends, the apportionment database offers a way to assess whether executive branch spending aligns with congressional intent. From impoundments to rescissions, it’s a key tool for tracking compliance, transparency, and the balance of fiscal power. Here to explain how it all fits together is Program Integrity Fellow with Arnold Ventures, Doug Criscitello.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 Tracking apportionments reveals if agencies follow the rules as the fiscal year ends Is “cheap mass” just a gateway to permanent software licensing in defense tech? Agencies breathe a sigh of relief with a recent decision from the Court of Federal ClaimsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Neo-defense tech firms promise innovation, deterrence, and reindustrialization, but their real profit model may hinge less on hardware and more on locking in software. Here to sift through the hype and get to what it all means for the future of U.S. defense strategy is defense researcher analyst and War on the Rocks contributor, Jonathan Panter.See 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 rejected Percipient.ai’s challenge to the government’s evaluation process, reinforcing long-standing precedent on standing and discretion. While the ruling went the government’s way, it still offers key takeaways for contractors. Here with an explanation of the case and its consequences 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.

Ahead of an agency reorganization, the General Services Administration is walking back mass layoffs across its real estate division. The Public Building Service saw major workforce cuts amid plans to shrink its portfolio of federal buildings, but now PBS is asking hundreds of laid off employees to come back to work. 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.

Agencies are being told to change the way they describe positions when promoting job openings. The Office of Personnel Management wants federal job titles to be descriptive, organizational or functional in nature, or in other words, OPM says cut the government jargon. 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.

Something is different in the Federal Register online data base. Users noticed in August that numbers got much less precise, search results were truncated, and meaningful summaries had disappeared. Here to report on what's happening and why it matters is VP for Policy and a Senior Fellow and the Competitive Enterprise Institute, Wayne Crews.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 Federal Register is flashing warning signs A new lawsuit says the Department of Energy is quietly dismantling FOIA and public transparency Aviation meteorologists help keep flights safe, but there aren’t enough of themSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bad weather can snarl air travel, and aviation meteorologists are the ones helping air traffic controllers make fast, informed decisions to keep flights safe and efficient. But a new GAO report finds that staffing at FAA’s Center Weather Service Units has dropped to critical levels, adding to the stressors already challenging the airspace system. Here with more details on their findings and recommendations is Director, Physical Infrastructure Team, at the Government Accountability Office, Derrick Collins.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

American Oversight is suing the Department of Energy over a new policy that could quietly shut down thousands of public records requests. The rule requires requesters to re-confirm interest in pending FOIA submissions without notice, risking mass closures and undermining transparency. Here to explain the legal challenge and its broader implications is Chioma Chukwu, Executive Director of American Oversight.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From staffing cuts to shifting guidance, federal contracting offices are navigating a year-end landscape unlike any in recent memory. The ripple effects are hitting small businesses and big prime contractors alike. We get perspective from 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 GertonHow to use artificial intelligence to fix federal regulations without breaking the law in the processHow feds can navigate the new fault lines in job security, pay and representationWhy this fiscal year-end feels different for agency contracting shopsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The National Geospatial Intelligence Agency has been amplifying its long-running efforts to use artificial intelligence and machine learning. This year, NGA has established several leadership positions focused specifically on AI, and it is developing new standards to ensure AI is applied to the geospatial intelligence mission responsibly. For more on these efforts, 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.

There have been a lot of lawsuits this year challenging the Trump administration's federal employment policies. A few have been successful, but quite a few have also been dismissed over jurisdictional issues. That's because in most cases, executive branch administrative agencies are supposed to handle disputes between the feds and their agencies. But what if those administrative agencies themselves aren't up to the task? A new legal opinion hints that courts might have to step in. Federal News Network's Jared Serbu writes about it in this week's edition of the Federal Report, and he's here to talk some more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Artificial intelligence could help agencies modernize outdated regulations, but a leaked Trump administration proposal may push reform past the point of legality. Smart use of AI requires an understanding of the complexity of regulations and the unintended consequences of deregulation. Here to explain how best to deploy AI responsibly for this purpose is Founder of the GW Regulatory Studies Center and former OIRA Administrator, Susan Dudley.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From the September 30 resignations to the President’s alternative pay plan, federal employees are facing a wave of structural changes. Add in court challenges to Trump-era terminations and the unraveling of collective bargaining, and the stakes for civil service protections have never been higher. Here to talk through the details is Staff Vice President for Policy and Programs at NARFE, John Hatton.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The U.S. Air Force is using a cross-enterprise AI platform trained on over a million profiles to pinpoint those with the highest odds of success in Special Warfare. Here to explain how they are supercharging Air Force recruiters are Paul Breitenbach, founder and CEO of r4 Technologies, and retired Marine Colonel Tyler Zagurski, r4's Vice President of Talent and Workforce Solutions.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 fiscal year ends, Congress is locked in a standoff over how, or whether, to keep the government open. House Republicans passed what they say is a clean CR but it did not pass the Senate. Now the House is out until after October first. Here to explain what these moves mean for the shutdown clock 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.

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton CBP’s latest partnerships let ports and companies pay for more support What if AI could spot the next elite warfighter before they ever raise their hand? There's no clear path to avoid a government shutdownSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Defense Department Inspector General has found that the military services are not properly overseeing maintenance of privatized housing units. According to the recent investigation, military housing officials did not correctly perform any of the inspections the watchdog observed inspectors skipped critical safety checks, including making sure windows opened in case of an emergency and ensuring electric outlets were free of electrical hazards. The military housing offices did not have enough staff or equipment to comply with oversight requirements. Federal News Network's Anastasia Obis spoke to Christopher DePerro, Program Director at the inspector general office, about what his team has found.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 now handling purchases for more federal agencies. HUD is the latest to join GSA centralized buying effort, part of a broader push by the Trump administration to streamline procurement for more on GSA, ongoing effort to change the way agencies buy. 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.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has announced 33 new reimbursable services agreements, allowing private and public entities to pay for expanded inspection and processing support at ports of entry. The program doesn’t replace core services—it supplements them where demand exceeds CBP’s funded capacity. Here to explain what’s changing and what it means for trade, travel, and transparency is Director of Alternative Funding Programs, Office of Field Operations - Customs and Border Protection, Ryan Flanagan.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.