Tech

Data-Theft Arrest Shows that Insider Threat Remains Despite Post-Snowden Security Improvements

The case of the NSA contractor arrested this week shows that the intelligence community has much further to go in stopping insider threats.

Defense

An End to U.S.-Philippine Defense Cooperation?

The Philippines’ decision to call off coordinated military exercises with the U.S. marks a significant shift in the long-time allies’ relationship.

Management

Ex-NASA Official Pleads Guilty to Lying About Contractor Moonlighting

Justice says Goddard Center engineer worked with friend’s firm, steered work and sought job.

Oversight

Both Clinton and Trump Said to Be Taking the Presidential Transition Seriously

Career feds advised to swallow frustration and pitch in to help political appointees.

Pay & Benefits

Retirement Backlog Is Back Down

OPM processed roughly 2,000 more applications in September than in August, bringing the total number of applications in the queue to 15,146.

Defense

The U.S. Army Equipment That Ended Up on eBay

Eight people, including six soldiers, have been charged with conspiring to steal and sell sensitive military equipment on the website.

Defense

The Air Force Just Dropped Two Fake Nukes

The tests in the Nevada desert come as tensions rise with Russia and the Pentagon seeks to replace its aging nuclear arsenal.

Oversight

Play of the Day: You Can Be Trump or Clinton for Halloween… Or Not

Sexy Bernie Sanders is probably the worst political costume, though.

Pay & Benefits

New Rule Would Exclude Non-Manager Feds From Financial Disclosure Requirements

Proposal would implement regulations for 2012 personal financial reporting law.

Management

How Work Can Be Made Meaningful

People find meaning in their work for different reasons, but bad management can easily destroy it.

Tech

Shooting for Space, to Make Life Better on Earth

Elaine Flowers Duncan, an engineer at NASA, talks about what drew her to rocket science.

Management

McCain Says He Will Scrap Change to Veterans’ Preference

Provision that would have limited the federal hiring advantage to a one-time use won’t be in final NDAA, says senator.

Pay & Benefits

What Is the FERS Supplement Worth?

Estimating the value of this important benefit.

Nextgov

White House Expands Employment, Housing Data Effort

Fitbit, LinkedIn and other companies are collaborating on the Opportunity Project.

Route Fifty

Alaska Gets Federal Grant for Untested Rape Kits; Fiscal Emergency Declared in Ohio City

Also in our State and Local Daily Digest: Neb. mayor in big legal fight with council over budget; W.Va.’s fireworks tax payouts to firefighters; and Cuomo signs law for burying pets in N.Y. state cemeteries.

Defense

Cashiered Army General Abused Purchase Card at Strip Clubs, IG Confirms

Onetime Ash Carter aide Ronald Lewis initially denied “conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman.”

Tech

The FBI's Arrest of an NSA Contractor

A Maryland man who worked for Booz Allen Hamilton has been charged with stealing classified materials.

Management

How to Write the Perfect Email

An etiquette update: Brevity is the highest virtue.

Oversight

Play of the Day: Mike Pence's Fake Ancient Russian Proverbs

The bear hibernation one isn't the only ancient piece of wisdom the Indiana governor made up.

Route Fifty

Weighing a Decision Whether to Stay or Go

As state and local officials urge residents in vulnerable areas to evacuate ahead of Hurricane Matthew, some are deciding to ride it out. And that’s “a headache” for first responders.