Oversight
Conservative senator open to busting Aug. 2 default deadline
Sen. Jim DeMint is critical of the two main plans before the House and Senate and suggests holding out for a longer-term debt solution.
Defense
Al Qaeda reportedly nearly defeated in wake of bin Laden's death
Officials believe a few more successful attacks against the group could lead to its demise, The Washington Post reports.
Oversight
Senators seek to strengthen Obama effort to recoup improper payments
Bill would codify and clarify OMB policies, including a contractor Do Not Pay List.
Oversight
Federal pay and benefits spared -- for now
The debt strategies unveiled Monday do not contain specific provisions that would affect employees’ salaries or pensions.
Defense
Homeland Security cancels troubled radiation detector effort
The agency spent roughly $230 million over five years attempting to develop and field the monitoring system.
Oversight
Too Close to Call
Political and economic signs point to a 2012 presidential election that will come down to the wire.
Oversight
Dueling president, House speaker take pleas prime time
Despite warnings of dire consequences for failing to raise the debt ceiling, neither side appears willing to budge with one week to go before the Aug. 2 deadline.
Oversight
OMB elaborates on regulatory review for independent agencies
OIRA chief Sunstein offers template for assessment of potentially burdensome rules under Obama executive order.
Defense
Sworn in, Crocker assures careful drawdown in Afghanistan
New ambassador says there is “no rush for the exits.”
Oversight
House and Senate remain on collision course over debt ceiling
Boehner and Reid release competing plans; debate is likely to come to a head just days before Aug. 2 deadline.
Oversight
Reid, Boehner unveiling dueling debt plans
The proposals will leave the House and Senate at odds.
Defense
Report: Military investigation finds U.S. funds reached Taliban
Probe reveals portions of $2 billion contract intended to support local Afghan business eventually reached insurgents.
Oversight
FAA furloughs 4,000 employees as Congress fails to provide funding
Air traffic control systems will remain in operation, but many employees can't go to work, including almost 1,000 in Washington.
Oversight
Agencies lack clear guidance on telework during emergencies, report says
Watchdog identifies problems with IT, personnel readiness related to federal telework and continuity of government operations.
Oversight
Merit board wants to know if favoritism is fading
Agency launches survey to collect feedback on managers’ ability to make objective calls on pay and promotions. Take our poll to share your views.
Oversight
Senator moves to end minting of largely ignored presidential coins
Vitter bill would shut down Mint’s multiyear production of commemorative $1 pieces that mostly sit in warehouses.
Defense
Panetta jokes about his colorful remarks during swearing-in ceremony
New Pentagon head compares himself to Biden.
Oversight
Not close to a debt deal yet, Boehner says after GOP meeting
House Republicans say a short-term debt ceiling extension is likely coming.
Oversight
Senate votes down GOP 'cut, cap and balance' plan
Bill would have required slashing spending by more than $100 billion in fiscal 2012 and amending the constitution.
Defense