Ideas

Senate Joins House in Overriding Trump’s NDAA Veto

Congress’ rejection of the veto—the first in Trump’s presidency—comes during his final days in office.

Policy

House Votes to Override Trump’s Defense Authorization Veto

On Tuesday, the Senate could overturn a veto for the first time in Trump's presidency.

Ideas

Trump Signs Omnibus and COVID Relief Bill, Averting a Shutdown

After days of bluster and veto threats, the president signed the $1.4 trillion bill into law.

Policy

Pentagon to Employees: How Can We Boost Diversity?

The request is part of Defense Secretary Mark Esper’s overhaul of personnel practices.

Policy

Trump's Halt to Election-Security Briefings Worries Many

DNI Ratcliffe’s edict comes just two months ahead of Election Day, with Russia, China and Iran all intent on influencing the outcome.

Threats

New Spy Chief Takes Reins Amid a Work Environment Reshaped by Coronavirus

Telework, staggered schedules, and new technology are some of the ways intelligence officials are keeping themselves and the information they gather safe.

Ideas

Lawmakers Ask Trump to Extend National Guard Missions for One Crucial Day

Many pandemic-response missions are slated to end just before Guard troops become eligible for federal benefits.

Policy

Trump Removes Acting Pentagon IG Slated to Lead Pandemic Oversight

Glenn Fine was ousted from the Defense Department’s acting IG position on Monday.

Threats

DOD, Feds Issue Coronavirus Guidelines for Civilian Employees

New memos spell out expanded telework flexibilities, leave policies, alternative work schedules, and more.

Policy

Judge: Acting Immigration Services Director Was Unlawfully Appointed

Ken Cuccinelli — also acting DHS secretary — was named acting head of USCIS without having first served in a subordinate position.

Policy

DHS to Waive Contracting Rules to Build Border Wall Faster

Acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf is using a 2005 law to override certain requirements.

Policy

Defense Bill Would Create 'ROTC for Pentagon's Civilian Employees'

The college-based Defense Civilian Training Corps would aim to fill “critical skills gaps” in the department’s workforce.

Science & Tech

The Defense Digital Service Opens a Georgia Satellite Office

Located near the Army's Fort Gordon and its Cyber Command, "Tatooine" is the service's first facility outside Washington, D.C.

Business

Pentagon Fails Its Second Audit — But Not As Badly

The comptroller's report said the Defense Department had fixed more than 550 problems — about one-quarter of them — listed in the 2018 audit.

Threats

With Suicides at Record Highs, Pentagon Unveils New Plan

DoD and VA leaders have been hampered by turnover and poor management in both departments.

Policy

The Pentagon Is Almost Two Years Late On Efficiency Reforms

Little progress have been made on various requirements ordered in the 2018 authorization act, GAO found.