The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

DoD class deviation leaves contractors with more questions than answers

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Defense Department is providing little guidance on how firms are expected to comply with a series of restrictions aimed at severing ties with companies the Pentagon says support Beijing's military. A new class deviation the department recently issued significantly broadens the definition of "Chinese military company" but it's unclear how exactly it impacts defense contractors. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Tracye Howard, government contracts partner at Wiley Rein LLP.

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Tens of billions of dollars of federal dollars are spent on university research every year, but taxpayers don't know how

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Every year, the federal government spends billions supporting research at universities across the country. That investment helps drive scientific advances, but it also depends on a complex system of funding decisions, academic institutions and researchers. For a closer look at how that system works, Federal News Network's Eric White spoke with Darren Lipomi, professor of chemical engineering at the University of Rochester and author of a new book, "Science Nonfiction: Behind the Scenes in University Research."

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Congress has a lot on its agenda, the harder question is whether everyone agrees on what belongs at the top of the list

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Congress has a full plate before lawmakers leave town for August. The problem isn't a lack of important work. It's that competing priorities from the House, Senate and White House are all jockeying for the same limited attention and political capital. For a look at where those tensions stand, I'm joined by Mitchell Miller, Capitol Hill Correspondent for WTOP.

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The VA is reporting record-high rates for suicide risk screening and follow-up

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

After an Inspector General review identified gaps in suicide risk screening and follow-up, the VA moved to strengthen those processes across its system. The result is higher screening rates and more reliable evaluations for veterans at risk. Joining me to break down those improvements is Acting Executive Director of the Office of Suicide Prevention at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Dr. Steven Dobscha.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Monday, July 13, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

The VA is reporting record-high rates for suicide risk screening and follow-up
Congress has a lot on its agenda. The harder question is whether everyone agrees on what belongs at the top of the list
The federal government spends tens of billions of dollars each year on university research. Most taxpayers never see how that system actually works

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GSA praised for initial changes to AI draft regs, but more work needed

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:30:00 -0000

In the three weeks since the General Services Administration updated its proposed regulations for the basic safeguarding of data within large language model artificial intelligence systems, vendors and other interested parties have officially submitted only a handful of comments. But that is not because there isn’t a lack of interest or questions about the new proposed rule that GSA would apply to all schedule and governmentwide acquisition contracts under their purview. The comments likely will start pouring in after GSA holds a listening session on July 14 in Washington, D.C. For more on what GSA included in the updated draft regulations and what questions still remain, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.

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CDC must ‘make hard decisions’ triaging work after elevating Ebola response

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is looking to rebuild its workforce after cutting more than a quarter of its employees last year, according to its top officials. But CDC employees heard similar messages from leadership months ago and have yet to see much hiring. Instead, the agency is relying on temporary reassignments to address staffing gaps a strategy that is putting a toll on the workforce, according to employees. This comes as CDC is upgrading its Ebola response to its highest level of threat. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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A new OPM rule will expand how federal agencies make workforce decisions

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Hiring someone is only the beginning of the government's relationship with an employee. A newly finalized OPM rule expands the agency's authority to pursue suitability actions for certain misconduct that occurs after hiring, raising new questions about accountability and workforce management. Federal News Network's Eric White spoke with Michael Fallings, Managing Partner at Tully Rinckey, to find out more about what is changing.

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For pregnant Medicaid patients, finding care depends on information that's supposed to point them in the right direction

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Access to care starts with knowing where care actually exists. New findings from the HHS Inspector General show that the provider information Medicaid patients and state officials rely on is often inaccurate or incomplete. Joining me now is Laura Kordish, Regional Inspector General for Evaluation and Inspections at Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.

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Military mission success depends on understanding what people can do

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Getting the right person into the right role has long been one of the military's toughest workforce challenges. The Pentagon is testing new ways to identify individual capabilities and use them in assignment and career decisions. The approach focuses on measurable performance rather than credentials alone. Joining me to explain what's changed to support this approach is Senior Scientist and Portfolio Lead at Aptima, Julia Brown.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Friday, July 10, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

In the military, mission success depends on understanding what people can actually do—and matching them to the missions that need them
For pregnant Medicaid patients, finding care depends on information that's supposed to point them in the right direction, but may not
Federal agencies make thousands of decisions about the workforce every day. A new OPM rule could expand how some of those decisions get made

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OPM finalizes performance review overhaul for federal employees

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 11:30:00 -0000

An overhaul to the federal workforce’s performance management system is now set in stone. A final rule from the Office of Personnel Management removes a previous ban on using forced distribution system. It also prohibits employees from challenging the ratings they receive. OPM's new rule marks the first major update to performance management in decades. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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DoD watchdog urges more transparency in daycare abuse cases

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 11:30:00 -0000

A new Defense Department inspector general report finds that the military services have policies for reviewing allegations of abuse at on-base child development centers, but they don't always carry them out the same way. Investigators found inconsistent communication between Family Advocacy Programs and child care officials, leaving some installations without timely information needed to make staffing decisions or update parents. The watchdog warns those gaps can keep classrooms understaffed, reduce child care capacity and ultimately affect military readiness. Joining Eric White now to break down the report and what it means for military families is Federal News Network's Rachel Cohen.

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Federal agencies are being asked to move faster, but speed starts with something more basic: a good business forecast.

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

When agencies define requirements clearly, industry can respond with better solutions and fewer surprises. When they don't, costs rise and timelines slip. The Professional Services Council has been measuring those trends and recently issued their new acquisition scorecard. PSC CEO Jim Carroll joins me now with more details.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Thursday, July 9, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

The Veterans Health Administration is modernizing everything from clinical systems to care coordination. But the real test is whether veterans and providers actually experience a better healthcare system
Federal agencies are being asked to move faster, but speed starts with something more basic: a good business forecast

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VHA is modernizing, but the real test is whether veterans and providers get a better experience

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

For years, VA modernization conversations have focused on systems and software. John Bartrum says the more important question is what veterans and clinicians experience when those systems either help care flow or get in the way. I spoke with the VA's departing under secretary for health about where technology can improve care delivery across the nation's largest healthcare system.

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DHS IG investigating reassignments of senior staff under Noem

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Last year, hundreds of Department of Homeland Security employees were reassigned to different jobs. Some were shifted over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement to bolster the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. Now, the DHS inspector general is looking at whether those reassignments were done legally. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

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Pentagon consistently failed to analyze the impacts of civilian workforce reductions

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Defense Department significantly reduced the size of its civilian workforce in 2025. The department however, started shedding its employees prior to 2025. A government watchdog found that the Pentagon didn’t consistently analyze the impacts of these reductions, either during the 2025 downsizing or in prior years. It also found that the Pentagon has no plan to assess lessons learned from its 2025 workforce reduction efforts. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Government Accountability Office’s director of defense capabilities and management Kristy Williams.

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Some federal careers are built to end early, and that changes everything about how you plan the rest of your life

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

For law enforcement officers and others, retirement can come in the late 40s or 50s with decades still ahead to fund and plan. That shift changes how they think about saving, second careers and long-term risks. Joining me to discuss the mind and investment shift required is federal retirement expert, Tammy Flanagan.

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Many point to the policy issues with the proposed NDAs for federal employees, but what about the constitutional factors?

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The Office of Personnel Management's proposal to institute a standardized NDA that federal workers could be required to sign as a condition of employment has made for much discussion in federal workforce circles. While many are concerned with the chilling effect it could have on workers, some are wondering about the possible violation of first amendment rights. One of them is the organization Protect Democracy, which filed comments of its own opposing the measure. To get a read on its view, I spoke with Jules Torti who is counsel for the organization.

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NIST's National Vulnerability Database has largely been a helpful resource, but needs some help to continue that

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A list of potential cyber vulnerabilities, rightfully called the National Vulnerability Database, is one of the many ways the National Institute of Standards and Technology aims to help industry and government cyber officials keep track of possible weaknesses in IT systems. However, a recent review of the NVD by the Commerce Department's Inspector General, found that a backlog has developed over the years, and NIST officials are in need of more resources to cut it down. For an explanation of what it will take, I had the chance to speak with Chuck Mitchell from the IG's office.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Wednesday, July 8, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on "The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton"

NIST's National Vulnerability Database has largely been a helpful resource, but needs some help to continue that
Many pointed to the policy issues with the proposed NDA's the Trump administration wants federal employees to sign, but what about the constitutional factors?
Some federal careers are built to end early, and that changes everything about how you plan the rest of your life

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OPM seeks to decentralize, revise governmentwide federal employee survey

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Office of Personnel Management plans to take a more hands-off approach to the Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey. A new proposal would make agencies, rather than OPM, responsible for surveying their own employees. OPM is also seeking to cut some currently required questions and add back in some different ones. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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USDA expects ‘significant number’ of staff facing relocation to leave their jobs

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Federal unions and nonprofit groups are asking a federal court to temporarily bar USDA from carrying out a reorganization that that will move thousands of employees across the country. USDA leaders have repeatedly said the upcoming relocations will not lead to much attrition among its ranks. But internal documents contradict this claim. In newly uncovered documents, USDA wrote it’s counting on a “significant number” employees who quit rather than relocate. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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The practice of project management isn’t static and neither is the exam

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The latest version of the PMP exam reflects a shift toward how project work actually gets done today. It puts more weight on real‑world judgment and less on textbook recall. Joining me to walk us through what's different and why it matters is Dr. Kelly Heuer, VP of Learning at the Project Management Institute.

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When an agency shuts down, the story usually focuses on policy and program impacts; this one looks at the people

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A new study is taking a close look at what happened to the workforce after the closure of the U.S. Agency for International Development, tracking the effects on jobs, finances and health. It offers one of the first large-scale pictures of how that loss of mission played out for employees and their families. Here to share her research findings and recommendations is former USAID foreign service officer, Jamie Oberlander.

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For military families with special‑needs children, the Exceptional Family Member Program is essential, but not simple

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

For families who rely on it, the Exceptional Family Member Program can shape everything from assignments to access to care. Jessica Hulter knows that firsthand from years spent navigating the system while caring for her daughter, and her experience sheds light on what it takes for military families to find their way through it.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Tuesday, July 7, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

For military families with special‑needs children, the Exceptional Family Member Program is essential, but not simple
When an agency shuts down, the story usually focuses on policy and program impacts. This one looks at the people left behind
The practice of project management isn’t static and neither is the exam

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Three proposed changes to the process to remove federal employees

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Office of Personnel Management wants to make easier to remove federal employees for performance or misconduct reasons. In a new 81-page proposed rule that came out last week, OPM and the Merit Systems Protection Board are jointly seeking to change the administrative procedures used to fire employees and the review of such actions before the board. For more on the proposed changes, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now to discuss.

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DoD issues guidance as ban on Chinese companies takes effect

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Defense contractors face a new restriction. A new law now prohibits the Pentagon from contracting with companies that retain consultants lobbying for certain Chinese firms blacklisted by the department. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Covington’s Election and Political Law lawyer Zachary Parks.

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Congress returns from recess with a lot of its plate

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Congress was sort of stuck in a wait and see mode once the president demanded more attention was directed at passing his election security legislation. An effort that that again was thwarted by procedural rules in the Senate. Joining me to explain how things went down and what to watch for after their brief recess next week, Bloomberg Government Deputy News Director Loren Duggan.

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The administration’s new AI framework includes something the government hasn’t had before

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A new executive order sets up a pathway for companies to share advanced artificial intelligence models with federal officials ahead of public release, giving the government earlier visibility into emerging capabilities and the risks they could pose. Joining me to explain how this is playing out is Alex Hastings, a Partner at Morgan, Lewis.

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If AI starts doing the work, can people trust the outcome?

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Agentic AI systems promise faster, cheaper execution for federal agencies, but they also raise new questions about governance, accountability and trust. We talk through what has to change as these systems scale with Karim Fadel, vice president of CGI Federal.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - Monday, July 6, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

If AI starts doing the work, can people trust the outcome?
The administration’s new AI framework includes something the government hasn’t had before. A chance to see advanced systems before they’re released to the public
Congress returns from recess with a lot of its plate

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The Best of "The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton"

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on "The Best of the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton" we revisit some of our best interviews of the past couple of months.

Learn more about what it will take to replenish the U.S. missile stockpile after the operations in Iran.
Also, a warning the agency responsible for overseeing classified work at defense contractors, it may be falling short of its mission.

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Ratcliffe details ‘fundamental reshaping’ of CIA tech efforts

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The CIA is looking to drastically speed up its acquisition timelines to acquire cutting edge technology like AI. CIA Director John Ratcliffe says the goal is to complete most technology acquisitions within six months. And the secretive spy agency also wants to open up to industry through a new Office of Corporate Partnerships. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

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Trump administration expands options for firing federal employees deemed ‘unsuitable’

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Trump administration is giving agencies more leeway to remove federal employees deemed “unfit” for their jobs. A new final rule from the Office of Personnel Management expands the reasons that employees might be considered “unsuitable” and therefore fireable. The change is meant to increase employee accountability, but concerns remain about the possibility of politically motivated removals. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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Loss of hearing is a problem today’s technology still hasn’t solved, researchers are now taking a different approach

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Even advanced hearing aids and implants can fall short when it comes to separating voices from background noise. A new federal research program is looking beyond the ear and into the brain for answers. We get more from Dr. Calvin Roberts, the HEARING program manager at ARPA-H.

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The FAR rewrite is more than just updated rules

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

We are now starting to see some of the changes to the FAR being implemented in real time. There of course still many questions to be answered during such a large transition phase. To discuss them, I recently caught up with Emily Murphy, former administrator for the General Services Administration and now senior fellow at the George Mason University Baroni Center for Government Contracting. I also had the chance to pick her brain about what happens when a government architecture project, wades into political waters, emphasis on the water portion.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - July 2, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

The FAR rewrite is more than just updated rules
If you’ve ever struggled to hear someone in a crowded room, you’ve experienced a problem today’s technology still hasn’t solved. Researchers are now taking a different approach.

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National security leaders gather to discuss the state of the defense-industrial base

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 11:30:00 -0000

As Washington heads into its summer lull, current and former national security leaders gathered Tuesday at the Center for Strategic and International Studies to discuss the state of play for the defense-industrial base and what we could see ahead on Capitol Hill. Federal News Network's Rachel Cohen joins us today with more from that discussion.

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OPM offers incentives for healthcare and insurance employees to leave before Open Season

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Office of Personnel Management is giving many employees in its healthcare and insurance division another chance to accept voluntary incentives and leave their jobs, ahead of their busy season. OPM is giving most employees working there another shot at the deferred resignation program that will allow them to go on paid administrative leave for six months before leaving the agency. OPM is making these changes ahead of an agency reorganization and Open Season. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new proposed FAR rule is trying to fix one of the government’s most persistent data problems, figuring out exactly what needs to be protected.

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A revised FAR proposal now out for comment aims to unify how civilian agencies define and safeguard controlled unclassified information in contracts, reflecting industry pushback on earlier drafts while addressing long‑standing gaps that left contractors navigating a patchwork of policies. Here to walk us through the details is Zach Prince, a partner at Haynes Boone.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The next test for the infrastructure investment and jobs act is whether it can deliver, not just distribute

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Five years after the passage of the IIJA, attention is shifting from getting money out to making sure projects move and results show up. Oversight is finding persistent issues that could shape how that plays out. Joining me to discuss how this is playing out at EPA specifically is senior advisor to the EPA Inspector General, Kate Robinson.

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When it comes to personal security, knowing something is happening isn’t the same as knowing what to do about it

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Security leaders are recalibrating how they read risk in a more fragmented environment. What used to be isolated signals now connect in ways that can change decisions fast. Here to explain what that means for public officials at all levels is Executive Director of Protective Intelligence at Ontic, Fred Burton.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Wednesday, July 1, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

When it comes to personal security, knowing something is happening isn’t the same as knowing what to do about it
The next test for the infrastructure investment and jobs act is whether it can deliver, not just distribute
A new proposed FAR rule is trying to fix one of the government’s most persistent data problems, figuring out exactly what needs to be protected

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Agencies award $179B to small firms in 2025, down from 2024

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Despite all the turmoil in federal contracting over the last year, agencies surpassed the 23% governmentwide goal for awards to small businesses in fiscal 2025. The Small Business Administration said last Thursday that agencies awarded 28% of all prime contracts to small firms last year. While agencies reached the overall goal, the total dollars going to small businesses dropped to $179 billion last year from $183.5 billion in 2024. For more on SBA's 2025 small business scorecard, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now to discuss.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Government leaders reflect on past and future of public service

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Leaders across all levels of government convened last week at the Library of Congress in downtown Washington, D.C, for an event celebrating public service. As the U.S. approaches the 250th anniversary of its founding, the ceremony sparked inspiration for the next generation of government leaders. Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman was at the event and she files this report.

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The government is rewriting the rulebook for how it buys and the changes are coming fast

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A massive overhaul of the Federal Acquisition Regulation is now moving through formal rulemaking, with the first set of proposed changes touching wide swaths of how contracts are planned, awarded and managed. The documents run longer than Moby Dick, and stakeholders have just 30 days to weigh in. Here to walk us through the key changes 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.

Two trends in the TSP don’t seem to line up, but they might actually be the same story

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Net contributions are down and now negative. At the same time, the G Fund has lost its place as the dominant investment. Arthur Stein, Partner with Allworth Financial, says those shifts are connected, and together they point to a change in how the TSP is working for investors.

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The "Father of the Nuclear Navy" is still influencing modern day leaders

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Admiral Hyman G. Rickover had a huge task, development a naval nuclear propulsion program that will use the technology efficiently and safely for years to come. Now known as the "Father of Nuclear Navy," it is safe to say that mission was accomplished. During his career however, he brought many into his sphere of influence and advised many other federal leaders and even presidents about nuclear power to make sure it gets the care and attention it needs. Now one of his long time assistants has written a book about the life and career of the admiral, who I jumped at the chance to speak with, seeing as my own grandfather served under him in the U.S. Navy. I had the pleasure of speaking with Joann DiGennaro, who is the co-founder and now president of the Center for Excellence in Education, an organization the admiral himself created.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Tuesday, June 30, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

The "Father of the Nuclear Navy" is still influencing modern day leaders
Two trends in the TSP don’t seem to line up, but they might actually be the same story
The government is rewriting the rulebook for how it buys and the changes are coming fast

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Pentagon is ramping up CMMC program, what does that mean for the Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center has long been a key cog in the Pentagon’s efforts to protect sensitive information from leaking to foreign adversaries. But the Pentagon is now ramping up a new evaluation regime under the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program. evaluating potentially tens of thousands of contractors that hold sensitive CUI. For more on what the CMMC program means for DIBCAC, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday talked with Nick DelRosso, the center’s director.

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Food insecurity skyrockets among military families, MFAN survey finds

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Food insecurity is on the rise among military families. And more than a third of currently serving families said they had less than $500 in savings. Those are some of the findings of the Military Family Advisory Network’s biennial survey . Over the years, the survey, which is the largest independent research effort focused on the military family population, has helped shape major policy and quality-of-life reforms. For more on the findings, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Dr. Gabby L'Esperance, Military Family Advisory Network’s vice president of research and evaluation.

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Congress seemed close to resolving several key issues until the White House stepped in, so what happens now?

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Congress appeared to be closing in on several major issues last week, before the White House shifted the dynamics in a way that could change what comes next. Now lawmakers are reassessing both timing and substance. For a look at where things stand, we turn to Mitchell Miller, Capitol Hill correspondent for WTOP.

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The Postal Service has the authority to expand into government services, so why hasn’t it acted?

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

With USPS under financial pressure, expanding into new government services could offer a path forward. But despite having the authority to do more, that effort hasn’t moved much beyond passport processing. A new report from the Postal Service’s inspector general points to a lack of strategy and a fragmented approach inside the organization. David Garcia, Research Analyst with the Postal Service’s Office of Inspector General, is here to walk us through the details.

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When there’s broad agreement on disaster response reform, why does action still stall?

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Competing FEMA reorganization proposals are now on the table, and there’s actually surprising alignment on what needs to change, but no final plan. That raises a more urgent question: how ready will the agency be when the next major disaster hits? Andy Winkler of the Bipartisan Policy Center joins us with a look at what’s at stake.

Read the report here: https://bipartisanpolicy.org/issue-brief/fema-reform-comparing-the-review-councils-recommendations-and-congressional-proposals/

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Monday, June 29, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

When there’s broad agreement on disaster response reform, why does action still stall?
The Postal Service has the authority to expand into government services, so why hasn’t it acted?
Congress seemed close to resolving several key issues until the White House stepped in, so what happens now?

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USPS staves off immediate cash crisis, but warns of continuing financial woes

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Postal Service has pushed back an immediate cash crisis by delaying payments to employee retirement plans. But Postmaster General David Steiner warned lawmakers this week that USPS’ long-term financial problems are far from solved. For the latest, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Army Corps restructuring of value engineering program prompts backlash

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is reorganizing its long-standing value engineering program by shifting it from a separate activity and folding it into existing project delivery processes. Critics warn the move would increase the risk of waste, cost growth and schedule overruns and one organization has urged the Defense Department to immediately reverse the decision. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Rob Stewart, SAVE International immediate past president.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Friday, June 26, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, a new book points back to one of the founders’ most important ideas, prevention
Some of the biggest fiscal problems facing the government aren’t surprises, they’re warnings we’ve chosen to live with
There’s no perfect answer to when to claim Social Security, but there are real consequences to getting it wrong

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There’s no perfect answer to when to claim Social Security, but there are real consequences to getting it wrong

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The choice to claim Social Security benefits early or delay them comes down to balancing immediate income against long‑term security. That decision often hinges on factors people can’t know for sure, especially how long they’ll live. Here to walk through what people should be weighing is Thiago Glieger, a certified financial planner with RMG Advisors.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Some of the biggest fiscal problems facing the government aren’t surprises, they’re warnings we’ve chosen to live with

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The latest social security trustees report doesn’t break new ground, but it does move up the timeline for when the trust fund starts to run out of money. And it raises a basic question: if we’ve known this was coming, why hasn’t anything changed? Joining me to walk through the politics and the process of fixing social security is the Executive Vice President of Policy at the Peter G. Peterson Foundation, Brett Loper.

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As America approaches its 250th anniversary, a new book points back to one of the founders’ most important ideas, prevention

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

When you think of Benjamin Franklin, you probably think invention or diplomacy, but Dr. Barry Davis says Franklin’s real legacy may be something more fundamental: the idea that a free society survives by acting before problems become crises. That concept shaped how early American institutions were built, and it still has relevance for how we think about public systems today. Dr. Davis joins me now to share his new book, "The Preventioneers."

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Trump’s pick for defense acquisition deputy lacks traditional resume

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Senate Armed Services Committee is holding a hearing today to consider four nominees for senior Pentagon and intelligence positions, key jobs given that the Defense Department is managing a record $1.5 trillion budget request with big plans for its space and intel capabilities. The four nominees are Jay Hurst, tapped to be the Pentagon's comptroller; Matt O'Malley, nominated as the deputy overseeing defense acquisition and sustainment; Roger Mason, who would lead the National Reconnaissance Office, the spy agency that builds and operates America's intelligence satellites; and Erich Hernandez-Baquero, who would become the Department of the Air Force's top official for space acquisition. Today's hearing helps move the needle on the many national security vacancies that persist across the Trump administration. Federal News Network's Rachel Cohen joins me with more.

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White House PQC order ‘lights a fire’ under post-quantum transition

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The White House is accelerating the governmentwide transition to post-quantum cryptography. In a new executive order, President Trump directs agencies to meet hard deadlines for adopting the PQC algorithms that will protect data from a future quantum computer. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

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Better decisions depend on data, but only if people can actually use it

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

We’re starting a new monthly series focused on how federal data works in the real world. Episode one looks at a Federal Data Field Guide aimed at helping users sort through different datasets and put them to work. Joining me now are Denice Ross and Chris Marcum.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Nuclear technology is moving fast, regulation has to keep up

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Time at the International Atomic Energy Agency gave Anna Bradford a broader view of how countries approach nuclear safety and innovation. Now back at the NRC, she joins me to share how she’s applying those lessons as the U.S. navigates a new phase of reactor development.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives says it’s entering a new era

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A new reform push at ATF aims to reduce friction for lawful businesses and owners, while concentrating enforcement on willful violations. The challenge is maintaining that balance as expectations around safety and accountability remain high. Joining me to discuss ATF's shift in focus is the ATF director, Robert Cekada.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Thursday, June 25, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives says it’s entering a new era, one that resets how it regulates and enforces
Nuclear technology is moving fast, regulation has to keep up
Better decisions depend on data, but only if people can actually use it

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal wildland firefighters report increased burnout, low morale

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

As the summer wildfire season gets underway, federal wildland firefighters are facing an increasingly difficult situation on the job. Three out of four respondents to a recent survey say they have considered quitting within the past 12 months. That comes as the frontline workers face increasing burnout and low morale. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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More SEWP for contractors as NASA expands total awards

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The wait is over for more than 1,400 vendors. NASA’s SEWP program office awarded spots on its sixth iteration of its governmentwide technology contract. In all, NASA made more than 2,100 awards under this governmentwide acquisition contract for IT products and services. For more on the SEWP VI awards, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me with details.

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Electric aircraft are coming, the rules that will allow them to fly aren’t

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

It’s not just drones pushing aviation into new territory. Electric aircraft are edging closer to commercial use, but certification is still the gatekeeper. The FAA is trying to adapt existing rules while building a longer-term framework that can scale with new designs and risks. Joining me to explain that tension is Derrick Collins, Director of GAO’s Physical Infrastructure team.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As drones take on a bigger role in the airspace, the rules around them are getting more complicated

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

As drone operations expand, regulation could easily fragment across FAA, DHS, DoD and others. Instead, there’s growing coordination to manage both safety and security across that system. Katie Inman, a Partner at Holland and Knight, walks us through how that’s taking shape.

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Commercial drones have been limited by how far operators can actually see them, that's changing

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A new FAA framework could allow drone operators to fly beyond visual line of sight, opening the door to expanded use in infrastructure inspection, agriculture and emergency response. The shift would move drone operations closer to routine use across the national airspace. Joining me to explain the impact and the integration challenge is former senior executive in the FAA’s National Security Division, Jose Martinez.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Wednesday, June 24, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

For years, commercial drones have been limited by how far operators can actually see them, that's about to change
As drones take on a bigger role in the airspace, the rules around them are getting more complicated but also more coordinated than you might expect
Electric aircraft are coming. The rules that will allow them to fly aren’t

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Marine Corps eyes 5% force growth by 2032

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Marine Corps has a new plan to grow the force by as much as 5% by 2032. The service hopes adding thousands of Marines will spell success in future wars. One lieutenant general says that goal is a step in the right direction to fix earlier versions of its force design plans. For more about this new goal and more context on changes ahead for the Marine Corps, Federal News Network DoD reporter Rachel Cohen 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.

Policymakers struggle to factor cybersecurity into federal funding programs

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Every year, agencies award billions of dollars in grants and other federal funding to finance infrastructure projects across the country. But few of those dollars come attached with cyber requirements, despite repeated warnings that foreign hackers are targeting power utilities and other critical infrastructure. A new report from the Institute for Security and Technology is now offering Congress and the Trump administration several options for factoring cybersecurity into federal funding. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday spoke with IST’s senior vice president for policy, Nicholas Leiserson.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Security at major events now depends on how well government and contractors operate as one system

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Behind the scenes of mega-events, contractors are running key pieces of event infrastructure, from cyber systems to communications. That’s raising new questions about coordination, accountability, and who’s responsible when decisions have to happen fast. Joining me to walk through how that works is CEO of the Professional Services Council, Jim Carroll.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A lot of science policy doesn't fail, it just never makes it through the system

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The interagency process is designed to coordinate decisions across government, but it can also become a choke point for science and technology policy. Understanding where that process breaks down is key to getting ideas into action. Joining me with his observations and recommendations is the Director of Science Policy and Advocacy at the Stand Up for Science Foundation, Cole Donovan.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Scientific breakthroughs don’t run on short timelines, but federal funding is starting to

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Federal funding and independent universities have long worked together to drive American innovation. But with support becoming less predictable, universities say the strain is showing in both research activity and the talent pipeline. Joining me to explain the impact on future discoveries is the president of MIT, Dr. Sally Kornbluth.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Tuesday, June 23, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Scientific breakthroughs don’t run on short timelines, but federal funding is starting to
A lot of science policy doesn't fail, it just never makes it through the system
Security at major events now depends on how well government and contractors operate as one system

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

SASC moves to codify Trump’s EO targeting defense stock buybacks

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Earlier this year, President Donald Trump announced restrictions on executive pay and stock buybacks as part of the administration’s push to speed procurement and revitalize the defense industrial base. Now lawmakers are looking to codify his executive order into law. 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 public’s opinion of civil servants continues to climb

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The public’s overall view of civil servants is trending upward along with increasing public support for a nonpartisan federal workforce. Those latest findings come from a new report from the Partnership for Public Service. The nonprofit is also picking up on a continuing trend of many Americans disapproving of the Trump administration’s cuts to federal funding and the federal workforce. For more on the survey results, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman spoke with Paul Hitlin, Senior Research Manager at the Partnership for Public Service.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A stretch of Capitol Hill work is shifting from debate to decisions

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Several issues that have been building in Congress around foreign policy, intelligence authorities, affordability, emerging tech and federal funding are now in windows where action is possible. The timing is different for each, but the possibilities are clear. Here to point out the progress and the obstacles 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 House task force is taking aim at everything from free speech to federal programs

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A new House Oversight task force is investigating how organizations handle issues like free speech, DEI and federal funding. With hearings now underway and a tight deadline, the focus is shifting from policy debates to how these decisions are made and documented. Here for a look at what that process actually looks like are Kim Hamm and Carlos Uriarte, co-chairs of Morrison Foerster’s congressional investigations practice.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Monday, June 22, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

A new House task force is taking aim at everything from free speech to federal programs and for a lot of organizations, the level of scrutiny may be surprising
A stretch of Capitol Hill work is shifting from debate to decisions

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Best of "The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton" - - Friday, June 19, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the best of "The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Bringing more students into public service starts with giving them a way in and a reason to see themselves there
NASA is testing a faster way to recruit top engineering talent inside the federal hiring guardrails
Federal financial management has always been a no‑fail mission. The past year has added new pressure to a workforce already stretched across competing demands
As AI reshapes work, a new program is showing what it takes to keep up

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

SBA kicks off new audit of economically disadvantaged contractors

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Small Business Administration is expanding its scrutiny of socio-economic contracting programs to now include a review of the women-owned small business program. SBA is giving these firms until late June or early July to respond to a survey and provide the agency with “personal and business tax returns for the last three years.” For more about this new audit and an update on SBA's continued scrutiny of the 8(a) program, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

CDC’s Ebola fight contends with staffing cuts and low employee morale

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is battling one of the worst Ebola outbreaks on record, calling on its workforce to help contain its spread overseas. But the CDC is dealing with last year’s staffing cuts and still lacks permanent leadership in many of its roles. Further, Internal surveys show employees responding to the outbreak are also dealing with low morale. 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 Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Thursday, June 18, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Pentagon is spending billions on major weapons systems, but there are growing questions

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Even as defense spending rises, many investments are still going into high-cost, limited systems, raising questions about whether the U.S. is building the right mix to sustain a prolonged fight. Here to share her analysis is senior defense policy analyst for the Center for Defense Information at POGO, Virginia Burger.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For DHS contractors, the funding may be back, but turning that into actual work and payment is another story

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Even with new money in place, DHS contractors are still dealing with delays, restart friction, and gaps left by the shutdown showing how long it can take for funding to translate into real execution. Here to walk us through how the Department is responding is CEO of the Professional Services Council, Jim Carroll.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s one thing to expand missile production capacity, it’s another to rebuild stockpiles fast enough to meet actual demand

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Even with increased funding and production, rebuilding key missile stockpiles could take years, creating a gap between current demand and available supply. We get a closer look now from Mark Cancian, senior adviser with the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

Read the report here: https://www.csis.org/analysis/rebuilding-us-missile-inventory-multiyear-project

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OPM awards major HR IT modernization contract to Oracle

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

A long-awaited HR modernization project is taking a big step forward. The Office of Personnel Management has awarded a nearly $400 million contract to Oracle. The vendor is expected to deliver a governmentwide IT platform to consolidate and replace the more than 100 HR systems currently in use across agencies. For the latest, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman sat down for an exclusive interview with Jason Parman, OPM’s principal deputy associate director for HR Solutions and 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.

It’s being pitched as a simple way to build wealth early, but whether it works may depend on how it fits real life

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

So‑called “Trump Accounts” are being described as a way to give kids an early start on saving, but the real questions are how much value they deliver, and where they actually fit among the choices families already have. Here to help us sort out the considerations is the president of Armed Forces Mutual, Mike Meese.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Life insurance is one of those benefits people tend to carry, but not always understand

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A lot of people have life insurance, but that doesn’t always mean they know what it’s meant to cover or whether it would actually do what they expect. For federal employees, those questions often start with FEGLI and follow them into retirement. Here to help us sort through some key decision points is Tammy Flanagan, principal at Retire Federal.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Suicide prevention training is meant to protect service members, but the Pentagon can’t fully track whether it’s helping.

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Suicide prevention depends on reaching people early, but the military doesn’t always have clear visibility into whether its training is being completed or making a difference. A recent GAO review highlights gaps that go beyond compliance. We hear more from Rashmi Agarwal, Director, Defense Capabilities and Management at GAO.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Wednesday, June 17, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Suicide prevention training is meant to protect service members, but the Pentagon can’t fully track who’s completing it or whether it’s helping
Life insurance is one of those benefits people tend to carry, but not always understand
It’s being pitched as a simple way to build wealth early, but whether it works may depend on how it fits real life

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DoD repositions the CDAO into the Office of the Under Secretary for Research and Engineering

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Defense Department’s Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office has been in a period of transition lately. Several years after its creation, Pentagon leaders decided last year to fold the CDAO into the Office of the Under Secretary for Research and Engineering. Before that, the CDAO reported directly to the deputy secretary of Defense. Andrew Mapes is the acting principal deputy chief digital and AI officer. He talked with Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis about the realignment and how it’s positioning CDAO to deliver AI capabilities at scale.

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USDA employees facing relocation weigh whether to stay or go. Some are eligible for incentives either way

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Agriculture Department’s sweeping plans to relocate employees are coming into focus. Employees are starting to receive their relocation notices. In the coming weeks, they must decide whether to move to keep their jobs or quit the agency. At one impacted component staff are being offered incentives if they stay or go. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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Sovereign AI systems built by national governments are hard, expensive and absolutely necessary

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

As countries race to adopt artificial intelligence, the challenge is building capability they actually control, without falling behind or over‑relying on outside providers. Alan Webber, Program Vice President - National Security, Defense and Intelligence at IDC, tells us what it takes to get that right.

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Federal contracting is heading into a different kind of environment, more controlled, more structured and less forgiving

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A series of changes across policy and regulation are reshaping the federal marketplace at the same time. Together, they point toward a system with tighter requirements and sharper expectations around performance and accountability. Here to help us understand the combined impact on the contracting community is Managing Partner at Centre Law and Consulting, Barbara Kinosky.

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Everybody studies government contracting, can outsiders actually move it

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

There’s no shortage of analysis about how government contracting works and where it’s broken. What’s harder to pin down is who actually has the leverage to change it. The Baroni Center at George Mason is trying to move from research to influence, and Mike Derrios says that only works if you’re plugged directly into how the system really operates.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Tuesday, June 16, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Everybody studies government contracting, the open question is whether anyone outside the system can actually move it
Federal contracting is heading into a different kind of environment, more controlled, more structured and less forgiving
Sovereign AI, systems built by national governments that run on their own data, infrastructure and rules is hard, expensive and absolutely necessary

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

House NDAA provision could derail Army data center projects

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Army is warning that an amendment in the House Armed Services Committee’s version of the 2026 defense policy bill could discourage technology companies from building data centers on military installations and jeopardize the service’s modernization efforts. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.

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Federal workforce losses had steeper impact on probationary employees

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

At most agencies, probationary employees left their jobs at a higher rate than other federal workers in 2025. That’s according to analysis of about two dozen agencies in a new report from the Government Accountability Office. Early last year, agencies implemented mass terminations of employees on their probationary period, who have limited job protections. For a look at how those separations panned out, Federal News Network's Drew Friedman spoke with GAO's director of strategic issues, Dawn Locke.

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Congress is at a pivot point on reconciliation and the defense bill

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Questions about the future of another reconciliation package are rippling through Congress, with implications for how and when lawmakers take up the annual defense policy bill. Mitchell Miller joins us with the latest from Capitol Hill.

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Agencies are doubling down on AI upskilling, but new research suggests they may be solving the wrong problem

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

There’s a growing push to build new skills across government, especially in AI. But if the surrounding systems don’t support that learning, the investment may not translate into performance. A new body of research is challenging how agencies think about the problem. Here to share those findings and recommendations is he Upskilling Lead in the Administrative Modernization Program at Oregon State University, Dr. Priyanka Dave.

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When the rules change, people will change how they work

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The rollout of Schedule Policy/Career and a proposed government-wide nondisclosure agreement are putting new pressure on how federal employees think about their jobs from security and accountability to what they’re willing to say out loud. The effects are starting to show up in real ways across agencies. John Hatton of NARFE connects the dots for us.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Monday, June 15,

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

When the rules change, people will change how they work
Agencies are doubling down on AI upskilling, but new research suggests they may be solving the wrong problem
Congress is at a pivot point on reconciliation and the defense bill

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

AI directive focuses patching efforts on ‘highest risk’ vulnerabilities

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The emergence of artificial intelligence-driven cyber threats is forcing a shift in how agencies manage software vulnerabilities. In a new directive released this week, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency laid out how agencies should prioritize the highest risk vulnerabilities on their networks. For more, Federal News Network Justin Doubleday joins me.

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White House polices hitting small business contractors hard, Senator says

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

New data from Democrats on the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee shine fresh light on just how rough its been for many small business contractors over the last 15 months. A new report from Senator Ed Markey, ranking member of the committee, found since January 2025 when President Donald Trump took office, agencies have reduced spending by 19% and thousands of small firms have left the federal market. For exclusive details on this new data and what it means for federal small business contractors, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.

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The people who rely on Medicaid helped design a plan to curb fraud without putting their own care at risk

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A new report on Medicaid fraud starts from the ground up, built with input from the people who depend on those services every day. It lays out ways to tighten oversight while preserving access to home and community‑based care. Here to walk us through the problem and the solutions is Leslie Ford, Senior Fellow with the Able Americans program at the National Center for Public Policy Research.

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A lot of health AI isn’t where you think it is and it’s not overseen the way you might expect

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

From administrative decisions to care management, health AI tools are influencing outcomes in ways patients may never see. But many of those systems fall outside the usual oversight framework, and that can leave gaps in accountability and increase the risk of errors or inconsistent standards. Here to discuss her recent diagnosis of this space is the Bipartisan Policy Center's Maya Sandalow.

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ARPA‑H is testing a model to make research faster, more repeatable and less dependent on where or with whom you work

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The limits of biomedical research often come down to access, tools, networks and where the work happens. ARPA‑H is piloting a system meant to level that out while improving reliability. Here to tell us how this will all work is Dr. Paul Sheehan, program manager for IGOR at ARPA‑H.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - Friday, June 12, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

ARPA‑H is testing a model to make research faster, more repeatable, and less dependent on where or with whom you work
A lot of health AI isn’t where you think it is and it’s not overseen the way you might expect
The people who rely on Medicaid helped design a plan to curb fraud without putting their own care at risk

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

GSA reexamining data that shows no building is meeting minimum occupancy target

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The General Services Administration, the landlord for much of the federal government, says none of the owned or leased buildings it has data on meet the minimum occupancy standard set by law last year. But GSA is reexamining the data it’s collected so far. Among its concerns, the data doesn’t differentiate office space from rooms where employees aren’t working. 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.

HASC challenges Trump’s EO ending bargaining rights for DoD workers

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The House Armed Services Committee is pushing back against President Donald Trump’s executive order that removes collective bargaining rights for civilian workers in the defense department. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.

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What looks like stability in today’s workforce may actually be caution

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

This moment in the labor market looks stable on the surface, but underneath it’s driven by caution and constrained choices. Workers are holding on rather than moving on. My guests are Matt Terry from The Economist Enterprise and Brendan McCarthy from Nuveen.

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Federal hiring problems may start with how the jobs are defined

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Efforts to improve federal hiring and pay often run into the same problem. The system that defines jobs has stayed largely the same, even as the work itself has changed. Here to walk us through the problem and a path to modernization is Gabe Menchaca, a Senior Policy Analyst at the Niskanen Center.

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Bringing more students into public service starts with giving them a way in and a reason to see themselves there

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A new program at Arizona State University is connecting students to federal service while they’re still in school, through a model that blends coursework with hands‑on experience. It’s part of a broader effort to strengthen the talent pipeline and widen access to government careers. Shannon Portillo, Director of ASU's School of Public Affairs, is here to give us more information about the initiative.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - Thursday, June 11, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Bringing more students into public service starts with giving them a way in and a reason to see themselves there
Federal hiring problems may start with how the jobs are defined
What looks like stability in today’s workforce may actually be caution, as more people choose to stay put in an uncertain economy

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OPM details changes for federal employees in Schedule Policy/Career

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 16:00:00 -0000

More details are emerging about the practical implications of Schedule Policy/Career. New guidance from the Office of Personnel Management comes as agencies face a looming deadline to formally reclassify thousands of career federal employees … in effect, those reclassifications will strip workers of long-standing civil service protections. Here with the latest, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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Three highlights in latest DHS spending bill

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Congress just passed fiscal 2026 appropriations for most of the Department of Homeland Security in May. But lawmakers are already moving forward with crafting a 2027 budget for DHS. The House Appropriations Committee’s homeland security spending bill pushes back on some cuts proposed by the Trump administration. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

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The systems that keep water flowing are more connected than ever, and more exposed to cyber risks

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Cyber threats are moving beyond data and into the systems people depend on every day, including water and wastewater infrastructure. A new GAO report finds persistent vulnerabilities, shaped by uneven resources, aging systems, and limits on federal oversight. Here to break down the findings and recommendations is Dave Hinchman, director of information technology and cybersecurity at the Government Accountability Office.

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A long-running federal river program delivers real returns, but now it’s on the chopping block

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

For more than two decades, the Army Corps of Engineers has worked with partners to change how dams are operated, reducing flood risk and boosting local economies along the way. A new analysis says the returns are significant, but funding is now at risk. Jim Howe of The Nature Conservancy explains what the program actually does and what could be lost.

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The government wants more of your seafood to come from U.S. waters

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Seafood isn’t usually top of mind at the Agriculture Department, but that’s starting to change. A new Office of Seafood is meant to help grow domestic production and connect producers to markets using USDA’s existing tools. Mike Illenberg is acting director of the office, and he's here to tell us how they're getting started.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - Wednesday, June 10, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

The government wants more of your seafood to come from U.S. waters and it’s standing up a new office to help make that happen
A long-running federal river program delivers real returns, but now it’s on the chopping block
The systems that keep water flowing are more connected than ever and more exposed to cyber risks than most people realize

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OPM details the changes for federal employees in Schedule Policy/Career

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 04:00:00 -0000

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

First came telemedicine, now the Army medical logistics community is embracing telemaintenance for equipment

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

As agencies look for ways to operate faster and more efficiently, The Army’s medical logistics community is embracing telemaintenence. It’s a bit like telemedicine, except for medical equipment. That’s meant the most experienced medical logisticians can now lend their expertise from a distance, in ways that let equipment get fixed in hours instead of days. Wes Ladlee is the chief of Army Medical Logistics Command’s maintenance support office. He talked about the improvements with Federal News Network’s Jared Serbu.

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USPS axing its regulator is on the table, as it looks for ways to avoid running out of cash

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Postal Service, on the verge of running out of cash early next year, is pricing out a wide range of possible reforms that, if passed by Congress, could address the agency’s long-term financial problems. One of them would be eliminating its regulatory agency, which must approve USPS requests to raise stamp prices. USPS expects to run out of cash early next year, but is relying on some extraordinary measures to push back that financial cliff. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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Agencies are under pressure to move quickly and enforce the rules, they still have to document the process, SBA may have missed a case

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A recent case involving the suspension of an 8(a) contractor is raising questions about how agencies document their decisions. An SBA appeals judge sent the case back, saying the record didn’t meet even basic requirements. So the issue, for now, isn’t whether the agency was right, it’s whether it showed its work clearly enough to justify the action. Zach Prince, partner at Haynes Boone, joins me now to talk through what happened.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Congress and multiple administrations keep coming back to the idea of fixed-price contracts, but it's more complicated than that

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Fixed‑price contracting is often treated as the answer to cost control in federal acquisition, and it works when requirements are clear and outcomes are known. But as agencies try to apply that model more broadly, they keep running into the reality that many projects don’t start with that kind of certainty. Here with a perspective from the industry side of the table is Brian Miller, president of BMNT.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After a marathon markup, the House has shaped its version of the NDAA, but the final outcome is still very much in play

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The House has moved its defense policy bill out of committee, mixing acquisition changes with broader policy fights. But with the Senate still to act and negotiations ahead, this version is far from final. And what shows up in this bill will shape how agencies buy, manage, and oversee work across government. We have the President of the Professional Services Council, Stephaie Kostro, here to walk us through the headlines.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Tuesday, June 9, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

After a marathon markup, the House has shaped its version of the NDAA, but the final outcome is still very much in play
Congress and multiple administrations keep coming back to one idea, use more fixed‑price contracts to control costs and improve outcomes. But putting that into practice is more complicated than it sounds
When agencies are under pressure to move quickly and enforce the rules, they still have to document how they make decisions, and one recent case suggests SBA didn’t

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stanton is driving a new teamwork mindset at DISA

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Lieutenant General Paul Stanton is redefining the concept of team work at the Defense Information Systems Agency. The director of DISA says the interdependency of technology systems and the speed of artificial intelligence are driving this change. WIth more on what DISA’s new approach to team work is going to look like, 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.

HASC advances right to repair proposal, industry pushes back

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The House Armed Services Committee adopted an expansive right-to-repair amendment Thursday over the objections of the committee’s chairman and several Republicans, setting up another major fight with industry over the Pentagon's access to technical data and software. 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 proposed NDA for federal employees is drawing attention to how information moves inside government and who feels safe sharing it

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A proposal to create a governmentwide nondisclosure agreement for federal employees is raising new questions about transparency and accountability. The administration says it reinforces existing rules, but critics warn it could have a broader impact on how employees communicate and report concerns. That tension between policy and behavior is at the center of the debate. Joe Spielberger of the Project on Government Oversight joins me now to break down the possible outcomes.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There’s a new temporary selection to lead U.S. intelligence and it’s a good moment to look at what that job demands and how the process works

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The appointment of an acting DNI brings up bigger questions about how the intelligence community is led and coordinated. That includes what kind of experience the role demands and how long an acting structure can hold. Here with insight on what has to go right is former FBI special agent and national security expert, Rich Kolko.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Congress makes headway on ICE and CBP funding, but not much else

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

After late-night votes and a contentious markup, Congress is inching forward on some of its highest-profile priorities, including ICE and CBP funding and the annual defense authorization bill. Regular appropriations for 2027 are also moving through committees. Loren Duggan, Deputy News Director for Bloomberg Government, joins me now to walk through 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.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - Monday, June 8, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Congress makes headway on ICE and CBP funding, but not much else
There’s a new temporary selection to lead U.S. intelligence and it’s a good moment to look at what that job demands and how the process works
A proposed NDA for federal employees is drawing attention to how information moves inside government and who feels safe sharing it

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Forest Service offers separation incentives to employees ahead of relocations

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Forest Service is offering separation incentives to employees ahead of an agency reorganization that will move hundreds of positions across the country. The Forest Service told employees in a recent email that it will offer Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA) and Voluntary Separation Incentive Payments (VSIP) to employees impacted by the agency’s upcoming reorganization. The Agriculture Department announced in March that the Forest Service would move its headquarters to Salt Lake City, Utah. 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.

CISA close to issuing new cyber AI directive

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Agencies will soon get their first set of marching orders from President Donald Trump’s executive order on artificial intelligence from earlier this week. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is expected to issue at least one binding operational directive as soon as today to direct agencies to secure large language models. For more on the BOD and other changes expected from the AI EO, 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.

CMMC has moved from planning to enforcement and contractors are feeling it

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

After years of preparation, cybersecurity requirements for defense contractors are now being enforced in real time. That shift is exposing gaps between what companies thought was ready and what actually meets the standard.Here to walk through what he’s seeing inside the defense supply chain is Emil Sayegh, CEO of Cybersheath.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Friday, June 5, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

CMMC has moved from planning to enforcement and contractors are feeling it
When it comes to inflation, playing it safe isn’t always the safest investment move

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 inflation, playing it safe isn’t always the safest investment move

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

For federal employees and retirees, inflation is changing the math on everything from retirement income to basic savings strategy. Some of the choices that feel conservative, like leaning on the G Fund or sitting on cash can fall behind over time. Art Stein joins me to walk through how inflation is affecting federal financial security.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

AI executive order sets stage for new cybersecurity directives

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The White House is moving toward a voluntary process for reviewing frontier artificial intelligence models for cybersecurity risks. The review process is laid out in an AI security executive order executive order signed out this week. The order also sets the stage for new governmentwide cybersecurity directives. Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me now 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.

Trump moves about 8,000 federal positions to Schedule Policy/Career

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Trump administration has taken the final step to make Schedule Policy/Career a reality. Close to 8,000 career federal employees will be moved into the new employment category with limited job protections. The move is meant to boost workforce accountability, but has also drawn sharp criticism. 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.

New research suggests some of the states most closely tied to the federal government may not be the ones you expect

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

For years, rankings of state dependence on federal spending have focused largely on government transfers. A new study from the Pioneer Institute takes a broader view, incorporating everything from Social Security and Medicare to defense spending, military payrolls and disaster assistance. The results challenge some conventional assumptions, placing Maryland and Virginia among the states most dependent on federal dollars. To learn more, Federal News Network's Eric White spoke with Liam Day of the Pioneer Institute.

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Building more missile defense capability means rebuilding the industrial base behind it

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A new production center in Alabama reflects a larger effort to expand U.S. munitions capacity, but the real story runs through suppliers, hiring and how quickly that system can respond to demand. As the Pentagon looks for more surge capability, industry is working through the constraints that shape what’s possible. Tim Cahill, President of Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, is here to discuss what that means on the ground.

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Getting from a patent to a product is still where many ideas get stuck

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Even with the Bayh‑Dole framework in place, moving a federally funded discovery into the market still depends on licensing, capital and timing. A new report highlights where those steps break down and how researchers and entrepreneurs work through them. Here to share their own journey through the innovation ecosystem are Dr. Eric Fossum and Dr. Sabrina Kemeny.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Thursday, June 4, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Getting from a patent to a product is still where many ideas get stuck
Building more missile defense capability means rebuilding the industrial base behind it
New research suggests some of the states most closely tied to the federal government may not be the ones you expect

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

An excerpt from "Your Federal Life," with Karen Lee, co-founder of FedsForward

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

After upheavals across the federal workforce, and hundreds of thousands of public servants leaving their jobs, grassroots organizations have been rising to meet the moment. One of those groups is called FedsForward, which has been building tech-enabled tools to help civil servants navigate career change. Federal News Network's Drew Friedman recently caught up with Karen Lee, a co-founder of FedsForward.

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OPM to crack down on ineligible health insurance enrollees

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Enrollees in the government’s health insurance programs will soon face tighter requirements when adding family members to their plans. A new final rule from the Office of Personnel Management will expand the verification process for insurance enrollees. It’s an effort to reduce spending on ineligible participants. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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Two changes moving through the House would reshape how agencies buy, from who gets a shot to how fast decisions get made

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The House is trying to give the “Rule of Two” more legal weight, even as it pushes agencies to move faster on acquisition. One effort tightens expectations. The other opens the system up. Former GSA administrator Emily Murphy is here to walk us through what these changes might mean for the daily work of buying for the government.

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Telehealth expanded quickly, oversight is still catching up

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

An HHS inspector general audit found that targeted system edits and clearer coding guidance could have prevented a share of improper Medicare payments tied to virtual visits. Here to talk us through what those fixes would change and how CMS is responding, is Assistant Regional Inspector General for Audit Services at the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, Kari Lowery.

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Helping disaster survivors recover is one of FEMA’s most visible missions, GAO reviews the results

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Delivering disaster assistance at scale is one of FEMA’s toughest operational challenges. A GAO review looks at where the system struggles to match survivor needs after major disasters, and Chris Currie, Director in the Homeland Security and Justice team at GAO, is here to walk us through the details.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Wednesday, June 3, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Helping disaster survivors recover is one of FEMA’s most visible missions. A new GAO review looks at how well that assistance actually lines up with what survivors need on the ground
Telehealth expanded quickly, oversight is still catching up
Two changes moving through the House would reshape how agencies buy, from who gets a shot to how fast decisions get made

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

NIH turns to AI to handle large data sets across disconnected systems

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The National Institutes of Health is leaning into artificial intelligence to gather insights from a vast amount of health data. And the hope is that shift will let the agency conduct research more quickly and offer new tools to support clinicians. Susan Gregurick is associate director for data science at NIH. She talked with Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman about how AI is helping to unlock insights across disconnected systems.

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FEMA begins limited hiring campaign after wave of departures

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is hiring again. With Atlantic hurricane season officially underway, FEMA is trying to fill hundreds of open positions. But that comes after the agency lost roughly 5,000 employees since last January. For the latest, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

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Retirement changes the rules for your portfolio, but what worked while you were building savings can start to create real risk once you begin to withdraw

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The move from saving to spending introduces a different kind of risk, where timing matters as much as returns. That shift can change outcomes quickly, especially in the early years of retirement. Certified financial planner Thiago Glieger of RMG Advisors, joins me to walk through those risks and how to plan for them.

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There’s more AI activity inside federal agencies than ever before, but the results aren’t always easy to see

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Federal agencies have expanded their use of artificial intelligence beyond early experimentation, but maturity varies widely from one organization to another. Some have moved toward operational use, while others are still working through basic implementation. That uneven progress is shaping how much of that activity actually turns into results. Here to break down her recent findings and take a look at the future is Valerie Wirtschafter of the Brookings Institution.

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A simpler way to file taxes ran into a complicated system around it

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Direct File had to fit into an ecosystem that includes private tax prep companies, state system and IRS capacity. Even with positive user feedback, that environment created friction that could shape what comes next. Gabriel Zucker, Fellow at the Economic Security Project, joins us to walk through a new report that details what happened with Direct File and what lessons future reformers should learn.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Tuesday, June 2, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

There’s more AI activity inside federal agencies than ever before, but the results aren’t always easy to see
A simpler way to file taxes ran into a complicated system around it
Retirement changes the rules for your portfolio, what worked while you were building savings can start to create real risk once you begin drawing it down

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USDA relocation of food assistance employees will lead to major staffing losses, union warns

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Agriculture Department is relocating employees at many of its component agencies. That includes staff at the Food and Nutrition Service which carries out SNAP and other food assistance programs used by tens of millions of Americans. But many FNS employees say they would sooner quit than jobs than relocate, according to an internal poll conducted by their union. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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Regulations for grants management are getting their second major rewrite in two years

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The regulations for grants management are getting their second major rewrite in two years. The Office of Management and Budget has three main goals in its proposed rewrite of 2 CFR 200, including improving the transparency and accountability of grant awards. Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now to discuss what the proposed changes say and would mean for agencies.

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Fraud detection is getting more data‑driven and the Justice Department is raising expectations for how that work gets done

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The DOJ’s new FOCUS initiative puts a spotlight on the quality behind data‑driven fraud claims, encouraging closer engagement with analysts who can show their methods hold up. That shift could change what kinds of cases make it forward and what organizations need to be ready for when they do. Here with more insight into how these cases are proceeding is Tom Suddath, partner at Reed Smith.

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The Coast Guard has plenty of tools to assess waterway risk—the challenge is making them work together

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Looking at risk one tool at a time can leave gaps in how the full system is understood. That’s prompting a closer look at how assessments are connected—and how they guide choices. For a look at how those pieces could work together differently, I'm joined by Susan Resetar and Eric Cooper of RAND.

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The to-do list for Congress is filled with regular, and not so regular, order

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

As Congress returns after the Memorial Day holiday recess, the things they left on the desk are still there and how lawmakers use the next two months could shape funding, oversight and the runway agencies have heading into fall. We'll get the details from WTOP's capitol hill correspondent, Mitchell Miller.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Monday, June 1, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

The to-do list for Congress is filled with regular, and not so regular, order
The Coast Guard has plenty of tools to assess waterway risk, the challenge is making them work together
Fraud detection is getting more data‑driven and the Justice Department is raising expectations for how that work gets done

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

House NDAA would set up protected disclosure program for AI incidents

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 29 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

House lawmakers want to ensure any incidents involving Defense Department artificial intelligence systems are quickly reported. The House Armed Services Committee’s mark up of the 2027 defense authorization bill would establish a protected disclosure program for AI systems at DoD. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

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Federal employees may see faster path to promotions

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 29 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Federal employees may soon see opportunities to move up the career ladder more quickly. The Office of Personnel Management is proposing to eliminate a required waiting period for federal promotions. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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As AI reshapes work, a new program is showing what it takes to keep up

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 29 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

As AI reshapes how work gets done, a new, hands‑on program is showing how veterans can build real, usable skills and do it quickly. It’s a practical take on the Labor Department’s push for AI fluency, with results already taking shape. Mika Cross and Ted Adair join me to walk through what participants are learning.

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For military families, the pressure isn’t just external, it shows up at home

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 29 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

New survey data shows military families facing sustained financial and daily life pressures from childcare to employment that are starting to affect stability and readiness. As demands on the force grow, those strains are getting harder to ignore. Kathy Roth‑Douquet of Blue Star Families joins me with what the latest numbers show.

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The same data that’s out there about you can also be used against you and now it is

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 29 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Reports of an Iranian‑linked group contacting U.S. troops using their own personal data points to a shift in cyber conflict from networks to people. It’s direct, personal and hard to defend against. Ron Zayas, CEO of Ironwall, joins me with what that means for service members and the federal workforce.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Friday, May 29, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 29 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

The same data that’s out there about you can also be used against you and now it is
For military families, the pressure isn’t just external, it shows up at home
As AI reshapes work, a new program is showing what it takes to keep up

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

VA’s EHR rollout gets bipartisan praise, as employee groups warn they’re still seeing issues

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 28 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Department of Veterans Affairs is getting bipartisan praise for its resumed rollout of a new Electronic Health Record; a multibillion-dollar project that has run into myriad problems since it began under the first Trump administration. The VA rolled out the system to new sites last month after a three-year pause on deployment. Groups representing VA employees, however, say the latest facilities to adopt the new EHR are dealing with problems. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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OMB revamps cyber event logging requirements

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 28 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Agencies will soon have new requirements for logging cybersecurity data to better secure their systems and data against ever increasing threats. The Office of Management and Budget’s new memo outlining these changes is one of several ways the Trump administration is recalibrating cyber defenses as the threat of artificial intelligence-fueled cyber attacks increase.

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Federal financial management has always been a no‑fail mission, the past year has added new pressure

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 28 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Workforce strain and technology changes are reshaping how federal financial management gets done. That’s affecting everything from daily decisions to long-term accountability across agencies. Here to share more about the future of federal financial management are Ann Ebberts, CEO of the Association of Government Accountants and Rich Brady, CEO of the Society of Defense Financial Management.

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Even as agencies try to bring in new talent, a lot of current employees are making tough decisions about pay, retirement, and whether to stay

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 28 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Budget uncertainty, pay debates, and retirement delays are shaping real decisions for federal workers right now. That’s affecting whether people stay, leave, or retire—and how stable the workforce feels day to day. John Hatton, staff vice president at NARFE, joins us to explain what’s driving those challenges and what they mean for the workforce.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

NASA is testing a faster way to recruit top engineering talent inside the federal hiring guardrails

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 28 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

NASA is testing a new way to bring engineers and technologists into the agency more quickly. The idea is to move faster while still working inside federal hiring rules. Here to tell us how the program will work is NASA Chief Human Capital Officer, Kelly Elliott.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Thursday, May 28, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 28 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

NASA is testing a faster way to recruit top engineering talent inside the federal hiring guardrails
Even as agencies try to bring in new talent, a lot of current employees are making tough decisions about pay, retirement and whether to stay
Federal financial management has always been a no‑fail mission, the past year has added new pressure to a workforce already stretched across competing demand

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"FedRAMP certified" vs. "FedRAMP authorized"

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 27 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Federal Risk Authorization and Management Program is making a simple word change that will hopefully put to rest some long-standing confusion about the cloud security program. Under the new rules, cloud services the program has approved will be dubbed “FedRAMP certified” instead of “FedRAMP authorized.” Nicole Thompson is the security director for FedRAMP at the General Services Administration. She talked about the latest changes with Federal News Network’s Jason Miller.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump administration pushes governmentwide NDA for federal employees

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 27 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Federal employees may soon have to start signing non-disclosure agreements. The Office of Personnel Management has unveiled a governmentwide NDA template for agencies. It’s an attempt to stop government documents from being leaked to the press. 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.

Some of the most important parts of disaster response happen long before anything goes wrong

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 27 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Hurricane season is starting, and FEMA is looking at changes to how it responds. That puts new attention on the people and capacity behind the scenes and how ready they are before a crisis begins. Here to discuss how contractors work with federal agencies to plan for disaster response is the President of the Professional Services Council, Stephanie Kostro.

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DoD’s ability to protect classified information held by its contractors depends on a system under growing strain

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 27 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

GAO says the agency responsible for overseeing classified work at defense contractors is falling short of its mission, with gaps in inspections, staffing and risk prioritization. Joe Kirschbaum of the Government Accountability Office explains how those weaknesses affect security and what changes matter most now.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Even as a legal challenge unfolds, a new DEI order for federal contractors is already being enforced

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 27 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The administration’s latest DEI directive is moving ahead on two tracks, into federal contracts and into federal court. While a lawsuit raises questions about its scope and authority, agencies are pressing forward with new clauses and compliance expectations. Dan Ramish, Partner at Haynes Boone, explains where things stand and what contractors can’t afford to wait on.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Wednesday, May 27, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 27 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Even as a legal challenge unfolds, a new DEI order for federal contractors is already being enforced through the contracting proces
.DoD’s ability to protect classified information held by its contractors depends on a system under growing strain
Some of the most important parts of disaster response happen long before anything goes wrong and often with help from contractors

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

HHS shrinks cash awards for top performers, shifting funds to bonuses with less clear criteria

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 26 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Department of Health and Human Services is shrinking cash awards for its top performers. In its place, the department is shifting a majority of its bonus budget to cover “special act” awards with eligibility criteria that are less well-defined. This is all part of a governmentwide push to limit the number of top scores federal employees get on their annual performance reviews. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The GSA updates its Federal Acquisition Service organizational structure

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 26 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The General Services Administration’s Federal Acquisition Service updated its organizational structure to better reflect how agencies buy and vendors sell. The new setup features five new portfolios called: Assist, Centralize, Create, Deliver and Optimize. Each is bringing together sometimes disparate services and moving FAS out of its previous organizational structure that centered on category management. For more on what drove this reorganization, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller caught up with Laura Stanton, the acting commissioner of GSA’s FAS.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A week that didn’t end the way Congress planned

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 26 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Both chambers were lining up for votes, then packed up and left town early. From sudden funding fights to shifting priorities, it turned into a week of surprises on Capitol Hill. Joining me to walk through what happenedand what comes next is Loren Duggan, Deputy News Director for Bloomberg Government.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Existing ethics laws weren’t written with prediction markets in mind

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 26 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Political prediction markets allow traders to profit from future events tied to public decision‑making. But as oversight systems come under strain, POGO says that structure creates risks current ethics laws were not designed to address. Janice Luong, a policy analyst at the Project on Government Oversight, walks us through how those markets work and where guardrails fall short.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The federal watchdog system was built to be independent by design, a former inspector general tells us why that design still matters

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 26 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The inspector general system has weathered political pressure before, but this moment is testing how durable it really is. Even so, the day-to-day work of audits, investigations, and accountability continues. Former FDIC Inspector General Jay Lerner is here with perspective from inside that system.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Tuesday, May 26, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 26 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

The federal watchdog system was built to be independent by design, a former inspector general tells us why that design still matters
Existing ethics laws weren’t written with prediction markets in mind
A week that didn’t end the way Congress planned

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Monday, May 25, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 25 May 2026 10:00:00 -0000

It's Memorial Day, and coming up today on "The Best of The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton,"

A military widow turned profound loss into a decade of service. Now she’s receiving high honors
A PCS move can test a family’s finances, routines and support systems all at once
A military family is sharing lessons from their decades‑long journey with autism

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Senate lawmakers renew military right to repair push

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 22 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Lawmakers are renewing their efforts to give service members the ability to fix their own equipment after popular right to repair provisions were stripped from the 2026 defense policy bill following strong industry pushback. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump administration’s RIF overhauls ‘troubling’ to former MSPB officials

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 22 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Trump administration is looking to overhaul federal employees’ avenues for appealing adverse personnel actions. As that gets underway, former officials from the Merit Systems Protection Board are warning of significant consequences for the civil service. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Even as AI gets better at finding digital weak spots, it doesn’t eliminate the human role in cyber conflict

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 22 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Security teams have long chased known vulnerabilities, but AI is accelerating how new ones are discovered and exploited in a world where cyber operations are already part of state competition. Here to walk through how that changes the balance between attackers and defenders is associate professor of the practice of cyber studies at the University of Tulsa, Justin Miller.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cyber isn’t just about defense anymore, governments increasingly assume they’ll use offensive cyber tools as part of state power

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 22 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Offensive cyber operations have moved from the margins of national security into the core of how governments plan for conflict, deterrence and competition. That shift means agencies are building cyber capabilities into standing strategy and industry is increasingly expected to design, operate and protect systems with the assumption that cyber operations are a normal feature of state behavior. Kat Sommer of NCC Group is here to share more of their recent findings and recommendations.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - Friday, May 22, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 22 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Cyber isn’t just about defense anymore. Governments increasingly assume they’ll use offensive cyber tools as part of state power
Even as AI gets better at finding digital weak spots, it doesn’t eliminate the human role in cyber conflict

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Three recent solicitations offer an interesting glimpse into the Trump administration’s influence on federal procurement

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 21 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

From the overhaul of the Federal Acquisition Regulations to the push for consolidation and centralization, these three requests for proposals demonstrate how agencies are implementing and accepting the Office of Management and Budget’s prioritization of reforming federal technology and acquisition management. In his reporter's notebook, executive editor Jason Miller writes about how the RFPs from Commerce, Treasury and GSA are demonstrating the changes happening. Jason joins me now to discuss.

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HHS sends RIF notices to dozens of staff it missed during office-wide layoffs last year

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 21 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Department of Health and Human Services carried out widespread layoffs a year ago. Now it’s sending out a second wave of reduction in force notices. HHS says these are more targeted layoffs, targeting employees it missed when their offices and programs were eliminated last year. All of this is happening as HHS embarks on a hiring surge. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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A PCS move can test a family’s finances, routines and support systems all at once

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 21 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

PCS moves can put real strain on military families from unexpected costs to the impact on careers and kids. Sarah Roder, Director of Partnerships and Member Engagement at Armed Forces Mutual, joins us to explain where families get caught off guard and what helps smooth the transition.

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After a tough year for federal senior executives, new leadership at SEA is looking at what comes next

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 21 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Federal senior executives are coming out of a demanding year, with mission changes, retirements and rising expectations across agencies. That pressure is reshaping how SES leaders approach their roles and forcing a reset inside the organization that supports them. Dr. Michelle Sutter, executive director of the Senior Executives Association, joins us to talk about what comes next for SES leaders and how SEA is adjusting.

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Having expertise doesn’t always mean the system knows what to do with it

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 21 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The Air Force has spent years building China‑related expertise. But researchers find the personnel system doesn’t always reward or retain that specialization. That leaves a gap between what strategy calls for and how careers actually play out. Dr. Miriam Matthews and Cristina Garafola from the Rand Corporation join us with their analysis.

TAG

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - Thursday, May 21, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 21 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Having expertise doesn’t always mean the system knows what to do with it
After a tough year for federal senior executives, new leadership at SEA is looking at what comes next
A PCS move can test a family’s finances, routines, and support systems all at once

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Pentagon begins sweeping review of military legal system

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 20 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has launched a sweeping review of the military legal system, directing the Pentagon’s general counsel to convene a special review panel that will conduct what he described as an “ongoing, long-term, departmentwide review of all aspects of the military legal system.” The review faces numerous challenges — and the panel’s structure will determine whether it leads to meaningful reform. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Ira Rushing, an associate at the Tully Rinckey law firm…

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4 benefits bills for federal employees, retirees to watch

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 20 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Some adjustments to financial security, retirement payments and insurance options for feds are in the beginning stages of consideration in Congress. Four recent bills that House and Senate lawmakers have introduced over the last few weeks aim to tackle a range of benefits issues across government. Here with details, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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Some of the biggest cyber risks to the military don’t start inside government networks

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 20 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

By opening its Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Program to new partners, the Pentagon is trying to reduce vulnerabilities across the supply chain. As those risks extend beyond government systems into the private sector, partnership becomes central. How that model works and what success looks like is at the center of my conversation with Terry Kalka, director of the Defense Industrial Base Collaborative Information Sharing Environment at the Defense Department Cyber Crime Center.

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The administration is leaning on the Defense Production Act to shape supply chains through federal support, not mandates.

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 20 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The latest use of the Defense Production Act expands federal tools to support domestic energy capacity across the supply chain. It does not compel action, but it opens a path for financing and program support. Whether that translates into projects will turn on agency follow-through. Scott Johnson, of counsel at Foley & Lardner, is here to share with us how that would work.

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Getting the rules right early can shape both safety and growth of emerging technologies

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 20 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A new GAO assessment looks ahead at emerging technologies where early decisions could shape how they’re used and how they’re governed across government. We talk through what those trends are and what Congress and agencies need to be thinking about now with GAO Chief Scientist Dr. Sterling Thomas.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Wednesday, May 20, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 20 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Getting the rules right early can shape both safety and growth of emerging technologies
The administration is leaning on the Defense Production Act to shape supply chains through federal support, not mandates
Some of the biggest cyber risks to the military don’t start inside government networks

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Naval Postgraduate School at the center of Navy's efforts to integrate AI into warfighting functions

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 19 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Navy is ensuring its officers at the highest levels understand how artificial intelligence works as it adopts and integrates it into its warfighting functions. The Naval Postgraduate School is at the center of those efforts, providing both the courses and the technology to drive that learning. For more on what NPS is doing, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller caught up with Randy Pugh, the vice provost for warfare studies, the director of the Office of Warfare Studies and the lead of the AI task force.

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State Dept directs managers to ‘revise and recalibrate’ scores for employee evaluations they’ve already submitted

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 19 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The State Department is directing managers to go back and revise recently submitted annual performance evaluations to give employees lower scores. That’s all part of recent governmentwide guidance limiting the number of top scores that federal employees can receive. Impacted employees say these changes could disrupt the collaborative nature of their diplomatic work. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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Challenging a GAO protest stay override may be getting clearer—but not any easier

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 19 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

When a contractor files a bid protest at GAO, the award usually pauses while the protest is reviewed. But recent court decisions are clarifying when agencies can override that stay and how closely judges will examine those decisions afterward. Here to help us understand the complexity of this contingency is Zach Prince, partner at Haynes Boone.

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Federal contractors are doing more than delivering programs

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 19 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

As hantavirus cases draw renewed attention, contractors are part of how the government builds capacity in public health emergencies, especially with large gatherings like the World Cup on the horizon. At the same time, a new Pentagon memo is putting more pressure on how contractors account for facility costs. Jim Carroll, CEO of the Professional Services Council joins me to connect those dots.

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Growth across federal contractors is showing up alongside new pressure on margins, controls and visibility.

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 19 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Deltek’s new Clarity report, based on 2025 data, shows a widening divide inside the federal contracting market. The firms growing fastest aren’t just adding revenue, they’re maintaining tighter controls and fewer hidden risks at the same time. Kevin Plexico, senior vice president of information solutions at Deltek, explains what the data shows about balancing speed and scrutiny across the market right now.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Tuesday, May 19, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 19 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Growth across federal contractors averaged about 15% in 2025, according to Deltek’s latest Clarity report, but that growth is showing up alongside new pressure on margins, controls and visibility
Federal contractors are doing more than delivering programs, they’re helping the government respond when conditions change quickly
Challenging a GAO protest stay override may be getting clearer, but not any easier

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Federal agencies double the number of AI use cases

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 18 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Federal agencies doubled their number of AI use cases over the past year. That’s according to the latest inventory maintained by the Office of Management and Budget. There are now more than 3,600 use cases documented across the government. Gregory Barbaccia is the federal chief information officer and chief AI officer. In a conversation with Jason Miller, Barbaccia gave us an update on Federal News Network’s 2026 A-I and Data Exchange.

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The military takes a closer look at the impact of Permanent Change of Station moves

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 18 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Last year, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed the military services to reduce the number of Permanent Change of Station moves by 50%. The Air Force, in partnership with RAND, then took a closer look at how longer assignments and fewer moves would impact budgets, readiness, retention and the career development of Airmen. To understand more about RAND's findings, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Lisa Harrington, senior operations researcher at RAND and Kelly Atkinson, political scientist at RAND.

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The IRS’s service picture may be improving, but taxpayers are still running into real friction

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 18 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The Taxpayer Advocacy Panel’s 2025 annual report surfaces nearly 200 recommendations on where IRS communication and services continue to break down. Philip Hwang, national chair of the Taxpayer Advocacy Panel at the IRS, explains what taxpayers are still struggling with and how their feedback helps to shape what changes next.

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Reorganization plans can look clean on paper and turn out far messier in real life

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 18 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A year ago, the Interior Department pitched a sweeping reorganization as a way to save money and streamline operations. What the evidence actually shows about how that played out is the focus of my conversation with Tim Whitehouse, executive director of Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility.

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A tied vote, a stalled reconciliation package, and big questions about how laws actually get finished

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 18 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Congress is wrestling with the big questions, but it’s the details that are slowing everything down. That tension between ambition and execution shows up across the agenda and it’s shaping what happens next. Here to bring us to speed on the details is WTOP's capitol hill correspondent, Mitchell Miller.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Monday, May 18, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 18 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

A tied vote, a stalled reconciliation package and big questions about how laws actually get finished
Reorganization plans can look clean on paper and turn out far messier in real life
The IRS’s service picture may be improving, but taxpayers are still running into real friction

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Agriculture employees sue Rollins over ‘escalating’ religious messaging

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 15 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Agriculture Department employees are suing Secretary Brooke Rollins over what they are calling “coercive” religious messaging. The lawsuit comes in response to an Easter message that Rollins sent to 100,000 department employees. Plaintiffs say her email implies an “in-group” religion at USDA and that those who don’t agree may face “negative consequences.” Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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GSA to add grants management systems to the schedules under a SIN

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 15 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The growth of shared services for grants across government has climbed steadily over the last five years. Through the Grants Quality Service Management Office, 29 agencies are using standardized technology services to help award more than $1.2 trillion a year. With more on how the Grants QSMO plans to further drive standardization into grants management, Federal News Network’s executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.

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Some of the most important environmental policy work doesn’t happen in legislation, it shows up in how agencies act, spend, and measure results

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 15 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Shaping environmental outcomes isn’t limited to writing legislation. In many cases, it comes down to knowing how federal decisions actually get made, through regulation, procurement, data and funding choices that shape behavior across the system. That’s the approach being taught to climate professionals by Mai Sistla, Senior Climate Policy Advisor at the Aspen Policy Academy.

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Testing new technology is one thing, making it work in the field and getting people to trust and use it is another

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 15 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Testing new technology is one thing. Making it work in real conditions and earning trust is another. USDA’s new National Proving Grounds Network is designed to close that gap, testing emerging agriculture technologies on working farms and ranches so they can move from idea to adoption. Here to explain how that model is taking shape is Under Secretary for Research, Education and Economics and Chief Scientist at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Scott Hutchins.

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Environmental change can turn rare risks into immediate problems, the Army Corps of Engineers is stepping in to manage the consequences

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 15 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Glacier‑related flooding is becoming more frequent and more dangerous in parts of the country, prompting the Corps to step in with targeted mitigation efforts. We hear how that work is unfolding on the ground, from Mike Records and Daryl Downing with the Army Corps of Engineers on site in Alaska.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Friday, May 15, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 15 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on "The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton"

Environmental change can turn rare risks into immediate problems and the Army Corps of Engineers is stepping in to manage the consequences
“Testing new technology is one thing, making it work in the field and getting people to trust and use it is another
Some of the most important environmental policy work doesn’t happen in legislation it shows up in how agencies act, spend and measure results

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FEMA to create public assistance dashboard under new law

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 14 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s grant processes are about to get a little more transparent. That’s because a new law requires FEMA to publish a dashboard of public assistance claims stemming from federal disasters. That requirement comes as the administration and Congress consider broader reforms to FEMA. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

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DoD proposes new rule expanding FOCI scrutiny

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 14 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Defense Department is proposing a sweeping rule that would significantly expand the government’s scrutiny of foreign ownership and influence across the defense industrial base, requiring tens of thousands of uncleared contractors to comply with security requirements historically applied only to companies handling classified information. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Scott Freling, co-chair of Covington’s Government Contracts practice, and Heather Finstuen, partner at Covington & Burling.

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As federal missions grow more complex, technology transfer is getting a credential meant to sustain expertise and credibility over time

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 14 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The Federal Laboratory Consortium has introduced a professional designation designed to strengthen how federal labs move research into real‑world use by building recognized, transferable expertise. The goal is to create a clearer marker of credibility for agency leadership, industry partners and the workforce itself. My guest is Andy Myers, technology transfer lead at the Kansas City National Security Campus.

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What happens to the human body when missions become longer, more demanding and harder to support from Earth?

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 14 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A joint effort bringing together Navy medicine, the Air Force Research Laboratory, NASA and academic researchers is reshaping how the government studies human performance under changing gravity. The focus is building durable capability for longer, more demanding missions. My guests are Rich Folga and Dr. Michael Schubert. Dr. Schubert is Professor in the ENT Department at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Mr. Folga is Aerospace Medical Research Device Program Manager, Naval Aerospace Medical Research Laboratory.

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The Army is testing whether rail networks can carry medical evacuation in modern warfare

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 14 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Using allied rail systems in Europe, the Army is testing how rail evacuation could expand medical capacity during large‑scale conflict. Here with more details on what's being tested by this exercise is Col. Crystal Belew, Commander of the 519th Hospital Center.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - Thursday, May 14, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 14 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on "The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton"

The Army is testing whether rail networks can carry medical evacuation in modern warfare
What happens to the human body when missions become longer, more demanding and harder to support from Earth?
As federal missions grow more complex, technology transfer is getting a credential meant to sustain expertise and credibility over time

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USPS floats more financial aid from Congress as way to avoid running out of cash next year

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 13 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Postal Service generally pays its own bills through its own revenue. That’s been the way it has operated for more than 50 years. But the agency is floating the possibility of Congress stepping in to provide more financial assistance to keep the agency from running out of cash early next year. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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House Republicans want more information about federal employee dispute settlements

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 13 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

House Republicans are demanding more information about the costs of settlements for federal employee disputes with their agencies. A new letter from leaders on the Oversight committee argues that agencies are settling too often, instead of fighting cases they could likely win. But the letter is also coming under scrutiny from federal employment attorneys. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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Receiving federal funds now comes with a different kind of risk calculus for grantees

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 13 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A tougher federal anti‑fraud posture is changing how grants and contracts are scrutinized, especially when routine compliance decisions come under review after problems emerge. We’ll look at where scrutiny is showing up, who’s being held accountable and what recipients are expected to get right with Michael Anderson, counsel at Smith Anderson.

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The size of the federal grants system is well known, how well it’s set up to manage that scale is another question

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 13 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

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

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Managing disaster risk is about how risk is understood, priced, and communicated across the system

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 13 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Insurance pricing plays a powerful role in signaling where disaster risk is increasing and where the federal government is increasingly exposed when coverage breaks down. We’ll examine a proposal that would bring the federal government into the reinsurance market, how that could affect those signals and what questions leaders should ask before shifting risk further upstream. Professor Ben Collier of the University of Wisconsin is here to guide us through those questions.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Wednesday, May 13, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 13 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Managing disaster risk is about how risk is understood, priced and communicated across the system
The size of the federal grants system is well known, how well it’s set up to manage that scale is another question
Receiving federal funds now comes with a different kind of risk calculus for grantees

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

PRAC finds an ongoing mission in the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 12 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Pandemic Response Accountability Committee was originally scheduled to sunset in September 2025. But the pandemic watchdog has an ongoing mission; it’s overseeing another broad tranche of funding. The One Big, Beautiful Bill Act signed into law last year will keep the PRAC up and running for at least another 8 years and tasks the committee with keeping tabs on the budget reconciliation bill. Ken Dieffenbach is PRAC’s executive director. He talked with Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman about the committee’s ongoing work.

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FEMA Review Council backs off on staffing cuts in final report

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 12 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

A Trump-appointed advisory committee is urging sweeping overhauls at the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The FEMA Review Council approved its final report to the president last week. The group’s report do not include earlier, draft recommendations that would have cut FEMA’s workforce by up to 50 percent. Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me with the details.

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Fixed‑price contracts assume stable requirements. Federal missions rarely cooperate, and the friction between the two is back in focus

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 12 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Federal execution increasingly turns on how risk is managed across contracts and capabilities. Recent policy signals are testing whether existing structures can absorb that pressure. Here to break down the root issues is Stephanie Kostro, president of the Professional Services Council.

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Innovation has expanded choice in consumer finance, but it’s also exposed limits in how well regulation keeps up

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 12 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

From fintech tools to new credit models, consumer finance has changed faster than the regulatory framework around it. Todd Zywicki says that gap is a central focus of the new Institute for Consumer Financial Choice at George Mason University, which is designed to bring more empirical research into consumer‑finance policy debates.

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If you feel unsure about retirement, you’re asking the right question

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 12 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

For many federal employees, retirement planning stalls at the same point: uncertainty about whether the numbers, timing, and assumptions really hold up. Instead of chasing certainty, there’s a better way to assess readiness. Joining me to explain how feds can evaluate retirement readiness using structure rather than stress is Certified financial planner Thiago Glieger.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Tuesday, May 12, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 12 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

If you feel unsure about retirement, you’re asking the right question
Innovation has expanded choice in consumer finance, but it’s also exposed limits in how well regulation keeps up and who ends up bearing the risk
Fixed‑price contracts assume stable requirements. Federal missions rarely cooperate, and the friction between the two is back in focus

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Democrats urge OPM to continue ‘vital’ Combined Federal Campaign

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 11 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Office of Personnel Management is being urged 'not' to shut down the Combined Federal Campaign. More than 40 Democrats penned a letter to OPM, warning that ending the CFC would be “disastrous” for the organizations that rely on it. The letter comes as the Trump administration is signaling a possible decommission of the decades-old program. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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Military spouses press Congress to expand small business opportunities

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 11 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Military spouses were on Capitol Hill last week to push lawmakers to support legislation aimed at expanding access to capital and Small Business Administration resources for military spouse entrepreneurs , The effort's advocates say this could help address the persistently high military spouse unemployment rate and improve military retention. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.

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Congress is heading into a busy legislative stretch, even as larger questions hang over its future

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 11 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Lawmakers return for a packed two‑week work period, with several major bills queued up for action. At the same time, unresolved redistricting fights around the country are raising longer‑term questions about the shape and capacity of the next Congress. Loren Duggan, managing editor at Bloomberg Government, joins us to sort through both the immediate agenda and what’s coming next.

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Veterans have seen this story before and they’re paying close attention to what comes next

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 11 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

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

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From the battlefield to the benefits system: how government decisions during war echo long after service ends

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 11 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

At stake in the Bagram bombing case is whether contractors retain broad immunity when supporting military operations and how much legal distance the government can place between itself and the work it assigns. The outcome could shape how the Defense Department handles oversight and risk‑sharing in future conflicts. I talked with Lisa Himes, of counsel with Rogers Joseph O’Donnell.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Monday, May 11, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 11 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

From the battlefield to the benefits system: how government decisions during war echo long after service ends
Veterans have seen this story before and they’re paying close attention to what comes next
Congress is heading into a busy legislative stretch, even as larger questions hang over its future

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Most IRS staff involuntarily detailed to taxpayer services put on extended tour of duty

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 08 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

IRS employees temporarily reassigned to cover frontline work during this year’s filing season will stay on these assignments a while longer. The agency is asking IT and human resources staff to stay on temporary details for another 120 days. Most impacted staff have been in training and are now addressing a backlog of amended tax returns. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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Native-American firms raise alarm bells over 8(a) program delays

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 08 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

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

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You can buy better tools, but that alone won’t get you to perfect cyber security

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 08 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Cyber spending often focuses on new platforms and advanced defenses. But experience shows those investments fall short when organizational practices, training and accountability don’t evolve alongside them. Here with a perspective on why people remain central to effective cyber security is Senior Director, Civilian Experience and Policy Research at ForsMarsh, Nicole Togno. Cyber spending often focuses on new platforms and advanced defenses. But experience shows those investments fall short when organizational practices, training, and accountability don’t evolve alongside them. Here with a perspective on why people remain central to effective cyber security is Senior Director, Civilian Experience and Policy Research at ForsMarsh, Nicole Togno.

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What does the FCC have to do with cyber security?

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 08 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

From emergency alerts to disaster communications, the systems that keep the public informed depend on secure communications networks. Here to explain how the FCC is approaching cybersecurity through the lens of public safety and why preparedness matters as much as regulation is Chief, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau at the Federal Communications Commission, Zenji Nakazawa.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Friday, May 8, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 08 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

What does the FCC have to do with cyber security?
You can buy better tools, but that alone won’t get you to perfect cyber security

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

DoD strikes deals with major tech firms to deploy AI on classified networks

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 07 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Defense Department has struck deals with some of the nation’s largest technology companies to deploy their advanced artificial intelligence capabilities on its classified networks. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.

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CISA tells critical organizations to prepare for cyber outages

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 07 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is urging water, power and other critical infrastructure organizations to prepare to operate without internet and other technology services. That’s the overarching goal of a new initiative unveiled by CISA this week. The agency says organizations need to be prepared to operate through IT outages and other challenges during a geopolitical crisis. For more, Federal News Network Justin Doubleday joins me.

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Customer experience modernization sounds straightforward, until agencies try to execute it

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 07 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Federal leaders are under growing pressure to improve how the public experiences government, even as they manage compliance, security and aging systems. We'll explore where agencies are encountering the most friction and what’s helping them move from intent to execution with general manager for U.S. federal government at Granicus, John Boerstler.

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A new executive order makes fixed‑price, performance‑based contracts the default across the federal government

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 07 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A new executive order makes fixed‑price, performance‑based contracts the default across the federal government, requiring extra justification and senior approval when agencies want to do something else. That shift could reshape how contracting officers plan, justify and manage major programs, according to Senior Fellow at the George Mason University Baroni Center for Government Contracting, Emily Murphy.

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Public Service Recognition Week often thanks people for what they do. This year, one national effort is asking how the country understands public service

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 07 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

At a moment when trust in government is closely tied to how work actually gets done, the National Academy of Public Administration is treating recognition as more than a ceremony. We’ll talk about why NAPA is making “Celebrating the American Public Servant” a year‑long effort and what they’re learning about durability, trust, and service across every level of government with James‑Christian Blockwood, president and CEO of the Academy.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Thursday, May 7, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 07 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Public Service Recognition Week often thanks people for what they do. This year, one national effort is asking something harder: how the country understands public service in the first place
A new executive order makes fixed‑price, performance‑based contracts the default across the federal government
Customer experience modernization sounds straightforward, until agencies try to execute it

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OPM rolls out AI tool to develop position descriptions

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 06 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Federal hiring managers will soon have a new tech resource at their disposal. The Office of Personnel Management has just rolled out “USA Class.” It’s an AI tool that can generate federal position descriptions. With the new resource, OPM is hoping it can relieve some hiring burdens for HR staff. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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Amid hiring push, State Dept finalizes hundreds layoffs initiated last summer

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 06 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The State Department has concluded its widespread reduction in force nearly a year after it began. The department is officially separating hundreds of Foreign Service officers who received reduction in force notices last summer. The department tried to part ways with these employees before, but has kept on paid administrative leave since July 2025. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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A conversation with a 2026 Sammies awardee whose federal research reshaped an entire industry

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 06 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A Sammies award this year recognizes USDA research that improved animal health and food productivity through genetics. Dr. Paul VanRaden joins us to explain how long‑term public investment delivered results for the dairy industry and for the broader public.

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Public Service Recognition Week comes at an uneasy moment for the federal workforce, after cuts, restructuring and tighter performance rules

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 06 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Public Service Recognition Week is usually about gratitude. This year, it follows workforce reductions, sharper accountability rules, and renewed debates about capacity and morale. Scott Kupor says recognition, in this moment, is less about ceremony and more about how the government expects people to do their jobs.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Wednesday, May 6, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 06 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Public Service Recognition Week comes at an uneasy moment for the federal workforce after cuts, restructuring and tighter performance rules. So what does “recognition” actually mean right now?
For a lot of employees, recognition isn’t about awards, it’s about trust, respect and whether their work still matters day to day
A conversation with a 2026 Sammies awardee whose federal research reshaped an entire industry

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Bureau of Consular Affairs rethinks customer service as passport applications surge

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 05 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

At the State Department, a growing demand for passports has led the Bureau of Consular Affairs to rethink its customer experience strategy. In 2025, the bureau issued more than 27 million passport books and cards. That’s a one-year record. Matt Pierce is the deputy assistant secretary of State for passports. As he told Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman, the department is managing to hold processing times at record lows – despite that record volume.

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GAO would need to cut 1,000 employees under House bill

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 05 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Government Accountability Office is facing a budget cut from House appropriators for the second year in a row. GAO would need to cut roughly 1,000 jobs under a bill being advanced in the House Appropriations Committee. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

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Public Service Recognition Week is about honoring federal work as it exists now, this year’s Sammies tell that story in a different way

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 05 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Public Service Recognition Week is often about celebration, but it also serves as a moment to reflect honestly on how federal work is actually being done. This year, the Partnership for Public Service narrowed the Sammies awards to just four recipients. Michelle Amante joins me to talk about why that matters and what these awardees represent about public service right now.

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For some new retirees, the paperwork may be done, but the money still hasn’t arrived

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 05 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Thousands of federal employees retired at the end of the last fiscal year expecting a smooth transition, only to find themselves waiting months for their first retirement payment. That delay can turn careful planning into real stress, especially when questions about savings, TSP withdrawals and Medicare decisions all come at once. Federal retirement expert Tammy Flanagan is here with wise advice on how retirees can steady themselves when the timeline doesn't go as planned.

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An IBM settlement is reshaping how contractors look at DEI compliance

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 05 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A recent settlement involving IBM has drawn broad attention across the federal contracting community, drawing attention well beyond the specifics of a single company. For many contractors, the case raises questions about how workplace initiatives intersect with long‑standing employment and contracting rules. Joining me with more details is Sheila Abron, Partner at Fisher Phillips and Chair of the Firm’s Government Contracting, Compliance, and Reporting Practice Group.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Tuesday, May 5, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 05 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

An IBM settlement is reshaping how contractors look at DEI compliance
For some new retirees, the paperwork may be done, but the money still hasn’t arrived
Public Service Recognition Week is about honoring federal work as it exists now, this year’s Sammies tell that story in a different way

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Space Force moves Air Force reservists into part-time Guardian roles

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 04 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Space Force is getting ready to bring part-timers into its force as it continues to build a personnel model radically different from other services. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.

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Suspended EPA employees allege retaliation, whistleblower violations

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 04 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

More than 100 Environmental Protection Agency employees were disciplined last year, after signing a “declaration of dissent.” Many of those employees are now pursuing formal legal remedies, alleging unlawful retaliation. Here with the latest, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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Why some of Congress’ biggest fights don’t really end when the gavel comes down

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 04 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

In Washington, a vote doesn’t always mean resolution. In some of the biggest congressional fights, decisions can leave everyone bruised, with new conflicts already taking shape. WTOP Capitol Hill Correspondent Mitchell Miller joins us with a look at what Congress has settled and what it hasn’t.

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In government, offering your best professional advice doesn’t guarantee it will be taken or that it will be risk‑free

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 04 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Federal News Network has been reporting on the fallout from EPA’s decision to discipline employees who signed a declaration of dissent. Now, we’re turning to how that call was made, despite internal warnings about legal risk. It highlights a familiar tension across government: what happens to career expertise when agency leaders choose another path. Here to discuss his reporting on this issue is Kevin Bogardus from E&E News.

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Congress already strips pensions for some crimes, a new bill would expand the list

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 04 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Under current law, Members convicted of certain corruption offenses can forfeit their pensions, while other serious misconduct is treated differently. A bipartisan bill aims to close those gaps by including violent crimes and sexual misconduct involving staff. Supporters say the goal is accountability, not punishment by press release. Congressman Suhas Subramanyam, who co‑sponsored the bill, joins me now.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - Monday, May 4, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 04 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on 'The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton'

Congress already strips pensions for some crimes, a new bill would expand the list
In government, offering your best professional advice doesn’t guarantee it will be taken or that it will be risk‑free
A vote doesn’t always bring closure on Capitol Hill, why some of Congress’s biggest fights don’t really end when the gavel comes down

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Navy sets date for all employees to incorporate AI tools

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 01 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

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

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Federal job applicants can’t skip ‘loyalty question’ that OPM says is optional, court filings claim

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 01 May 2026 11:30:00 -0000

New essay questions on many federal job applications asking candidates how they would advance the Trump administration’s policies, are optional, according to the Office of Personnel Management. Unions challenging the questions in a lawsuit say many job applicants can’t skip over the essays and can’t submit their applications without answering them. The questions are appearing on a growing number of federal job applications. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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How shared experience plays a role in helping people reset under sustained stress

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 01 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Sustained stress is a reality for many veterans, first responders and federal employees. New data from the Veteran Tickets Foundation looks at how shared live experiences help people reset and reconnect, particularly when formal systems move slowly or unevenly. Federal News Network's Eric White caught up with Chief Strategy Officer for Veteran Tickets Foundation, Steve Weintraub, to get more insight.

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Markets have felt shaky for months, but the returns tell a very different story

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 01 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Markets have been noisy for months. But when you look past daily swings, many TSP funds are firmly in positive territory, highlighting the gap between headline volatility and how markets actually price information. Certified Financial Planner Art Stein is here to help explain the disconnect and how investors should respond.

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A court ruling protected the Institute for Museum and Library Services, but the fight isn’t over

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 01 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A federal court has blocked administrative efforts to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services. But the administration’s latest budget proposal would eliminate its funding anyway, putting legal clarity and budget reality on different tracks. Joining me to walk through what the ruling does, what it doesn’t, and what happens next is President of the American Libraries Association, Sam Helmick.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Friday, May 1, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 01 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

A court ruling protected the Institute for Museum and Library Services, but the fight isn’t over
Markets have felt shaky for months, but the returns tell a very different story
How shared experience plays a role in helping people reset under sustained stress

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Fraud doesn’t always slip through the cracks

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 14:30:00 -0000

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Fraud doesn’t always slip through the cracks, it walks through the front door of a federal program

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 14:30:00 -0000

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Army’s Project ARIA seeks to accelerate AI adoption across the force

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Army’s newest AI project ARIA, or the Rapid Implementation of Artificial Intelligence initiative, is organized around three lines of effort that Army leaders say will ultimately merge into one. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Deputy Under Secretary of the Army David Fitzgerald, who breaks down those efforts in part two of the conversation we began on Tuesday.

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GAO report on DOGE payments access ‘just the tip of the iceberg’

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

A new report is shedding light on how Department of Government Efficiency staffers gained access to sensitive Treasury Department payment systems last year. The Government Accountability Office found Treasury gave DOGE staffers access to data without following IT security rules. Privacy watchdog groups say GAO’s report may be the tip of the iceberg on DOGE’s access to sensitive government data. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For families with loved ones behind bars, missing information often means carrying risks they can’t see or control

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Families of incarcerated people depend on timely, accurate information to make decisions about safety, health and contact, but when that information is missing, the risk shifts directly onto them. Those gaps raise a larger question about why transparency for prison families hasn’t been treated as a core government responsibility. Here to share that impact is Heather Pirtle, president and founder of FIRST Network.

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Cutting contracts can promise quick savings, the harder question is where the cost actually lands

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A recent review of IRS contract cancellations found hundreds of millions of dollars in potential savings, but far less clarity about how those decisions shifted impact onto service delivery and workloads. The findings raise questions about how agencies assess who absorbs the risk when decisions are made quickly. I'm joined by LaToya George from the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration.

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Extreme weather is forcing federal agencies to rethink who bears the risk when long‑term cleanup work is overwhelmed

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

As natural disasters grow more frequent and intense, new EPA Inspector General findings suggest some federal facility Superfund cleanups may fail when conditions overwhelm existing remedies; pushing environmental and health risks into surrounding communities. We’ll discuss what that means for EPA staff, partner agencies and prevention planning before disasters strike, with Erin Barnes‑Weaver, deputy assistant inspector general for evaluation at the EPA Office of Inspector General.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Thursday, April 30, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Extreme weather is forcing federal agencies to rethink who bears the risk when long‑term cleanup work is overwhelmed
Cutting contracts can promise quick savings, the harder question is where the cost actually lands
For families with loved ones behind bars, missing information often means carrying risks they can’t see or control

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Over 100 obsolete or redundant federal job titles flagged for OPM consolidation effort

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

From bartender to elevator mechanic and meat cutter to wood worker, more than 100 federal job titles are about to be swept into broader workforce categories. The Office of Personnel Management is undertaking a new effort to trim down the 600-plus federal job series that exist across government. This first round of consolidation will impact about 5,000 federal employees. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Treasury secretary: IRS hit a ‘home run’ on challenging filing season, but still needs staffing and budget cuts

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Top Treasury officials are telling Congress that the IRS pulled off a remarkable feat, carrying out a busier-than-usual filing season with a much smaller workforce. But the Trump administration is still pursuing further workforce and budget cuts for the IRS next year. Officials overseeing the IRS say the agency’s long-anticipated investments in technology are paying off and its adoption of artificial intelligence and automation tools means the agency can do more with less. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman joins us with more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Good policy still depends on numbers the public can trust and on systems built to sustain them

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Economic indicators are meant to bring clarity to decision‑making across government and the economy. But the systems that produce those numbers are operating under growing strain, from volatility to skepticism to capacity limits. A new cross‑institution effort aims to strengthen how federal data are produced and protected over time. We’ll discuss that work with John Sabelhaus, Senior Fellow in economic studies at the Brookings Institution.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Some of the federal government’s most trusted public data tools aren’t being maintained the way they once were

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

An analysis from USAFacts finds that many of the government’s most important public datasets are no longer being updated or maintained as expected. The findings underscore how staffing, continuity and organizational attention shape whether federal data remains usable at all. Here to break down what’s changing and why is Richard Coffin, chief of research and advocacy at USAFacts.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Wednesday, April 29, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Some of the federal government’s most trusted public data tools aren’t being maintained the way they once were
Good policy still depends on numbers the public can trust and on systems built to sustain them
Fraud doesn’t always slip through the cracks, sometimes it walks straight through the front door of a federal program

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

New acquisition structure takes shape within the Army

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

A new acquisition structure has been taking shape within the Army. It shifts the focus away from managing individual programs and toward overseeing portfolios of capabilities. Senior leaders now known as portfolio acquisition executives oversee capability areas, while the offices responsible for individual programs have been rebranded from program executive offices to capability program executives. Dennis Teefy is project manager for command and control applications, within the new Capability Program Executive for Command and Control Information Network. He talked with Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis about the new structure and how it’s changing things.

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Army launches ARIA initiative, to rapidly deliver AI to soldiers

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Army recently launched a new initiative aimed at rapidly delivering artificial intelligence tools to soldiers. Dubbed Project ARIA, short for Army Rapid Implementation of Artificial Intelligence; the effort will initially focus on three areas, including automating the Army’s planning, programming, budgeting, and execution, or PPBE, process, building a “model armory” and improving supply chain management. The Army will partner directly with top AI firms to deliver solutions in months rather than years. For more on the project, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Deputy Under Secretary of the Army David Fitzgerald.

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Around the world, governments are adapting to sustained pressure and not waiting for stability to return

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Drawing on experiences from governments across the globe, a new trends report focuses less on prediction and more on how public institutions respond when resources are tight and systems are under strain. We’ll talk about what those shared lessons suggest for decision‑making ahead with the executive director of the Center for Government Insights at Deloitte, Bill Eggers.

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Modernizing preparedness law means asking whether long‑standing systems are built to last over time

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Modernizing preparedness law requires more than updating language or refreshing authorities. It means confronting where coordination, capacity and accountability have fallen short under stress as threats have evolved. Here to walk through some key considerations is U.S. policy and advocacy officer at the Global Health Technologies Coalition, Alex Long.

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Unpaid bills at DHS are testing how long critical homeland security missions can hold

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

As unpaid DHS contractor invoices stretch back nearly nine months, companies supporting critical homeland security missions say workforce stability and operational readiness are increasingly at risk. With Congress still weeks away from funding relief, the question is how long that capacity can be sustained. Here to break down those impacts is Stephanie Kostro, president of the Professional Services Council.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Tuesday, April 28, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Unpaid bills at DHS are testing how long critical homeland security missions can hold
Modernizing preparedness law means asking whether long‑standing systems are built to last over time
Around the world, governments are adapting to sustained pressure and not waiting for stability to return

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Plankey withdraws as CISA nominee

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

President Trump’s pick to lead the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is withdrawing from consideration. Sean Plankey was first nominated to serve as CISA director last March. But after a long wait in the Senate, Plankey says he needs to step back, leaving the cyber agency without a permanent director for the foreseeable future. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me...

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USDA expands reorganization plans, doubling down on employee relocations from first Trump administration

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Agriculture Department is expanding its reorganization plans; moving hundreds of additional employees from its component agencies out of the Washington DC area. Food Safety and Inspection Service employees working at its headquarters are being asked to move to states like Iowa and Georgia. USDA is also doubling down on reassignments that began under the first Trump administration. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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Updating aviation consumer protections is one piece of a broader question

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

As the United States prepares to host the World Cup and the Olympics, attention is turning to how federal agencies plan for passenger experience and tourism capacity. A recent House‑passed aviation bill highlights those connections in a tangible way. Representative Dina Titus from Nevada joins me now to discuss the issue.

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A court decision has strengthened the CFPB’s footing as debates over its future continue

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A recent court ruling requiring continued funding of CFPB gives the organization room to keep carrying out its mission despite ongoing pressure from the White House and Congress. We’ll examine how the decision affects the bureau’s day‑to‑day operations and longer‑term outlook, with Senior Counsel at Ballard Spahr, Alan Kaplinsky.

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When Congress focuses on one big fight, something else usually stalls

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The budget resolution and reconciliation process are absorbing much of Congress’s attention, staff time and political oxygen. That focus is crowding the calendar for core governing work, including upcoming appropriations, must‑do bills, and pending confirmations. Here to break down how the current focus reshapes the rest of the legislative calendar is Deputy News Director at Bloomberg Government, Loren Duggan.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - Monday, April 27, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

When Congress focuses on one big fight, something else usually stalls
A court decision has strengthened the CFPB’s footing as debates over its future continue
Updating aviation consumer protections is one piece of a broader question about how the federal government prepares for large‑scale travel and tourism demands

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

House appropriators omit civilian federal pay raise from 2027 spending bill

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

A pay raise for federal employees in 2027 is looking even further out of reach. The House Appropriations Committee has advanced spending legislation that makes no mention of a federal pay raise next year. That aligns with the White House’s omission of a civilian raise in its budget request from earlier this month. Here with the latest, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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DoD moves to end most collective bargaining agreements

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Defense Department employees have become the latest to lose their protections provided under collective bargaining agreements as the Trump administration continues to strip workers of their union rights at agencies with national security missions. But unions say they have represented federal workers for decades, have successfully challenged similar efforts in the past and will continue to fight the move. For more, Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis spoke with Ira Rushing from the Tully Rinckey law firm.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Friday, April 24, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

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Two administrative moves are getting the attention of federal employees and retirees

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

OPM’s request for more granular FEHB health data and the Postal Service’s suspension of employer pension contributions raise separate issues, but they share common questions about privacy, authority and long‑term trust in benefit structures. John Hatton joins us with NARFE’s perspective.

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As pressure builds on the Postal Service, some of its highest‑stakes responsibilities may be getting harder to carry out

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

USPS leaders have warned Congress about financial strain, rising costs and the possibility of service reductions, concerns that show up first in rural delivery. That stress now collides with growing demands on the mail system, including election‑related responsibilities. Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski representing Illinois’ 13th Congressional District, joins me with her thoughts on the challenges facing the postal service.

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Is SBA moving the small business contracting goal posts?

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Nearly seven months into the fiscal year, the Small Business Administration is considering moving the small business contracting goal posts for agencies. In a document sent to agencies in March, SBA detailed several new factors it will consider as it grades agency efforts to contract with small businesses. For more on this new methodology and why SBA's plans are causing concern among small business experts and on Capitol Hill, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me to discuss.

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TSA advances ‘GoldPlus’ privatization plan

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Transportation Security Administration has quietly been advancing big changes to the private contractor security screening program. TSA says the goal is innovation and a better passenger experience. It comes against the backdrop of Trump administration efforts to privatize more TSA operations. For the latest, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Two Pentagon workforce decisions are raising new concerns about capacity and consent

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Congressional scrutiny of the Department of Defense’s clearance backlogs comes as the Pentagon again asks civilian employees to volunteer for temporary immigration‑support deployments. Together, the moves highlight growing strain on the defense civilian workforce and the systems that support it. We’ll unpack both with Dan Meyer, national security partner at Tully Rinckey.

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The outcome of one lawsuit could shape how future FBI investigations are handled

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Three former FBI agents fired last fall are now bringing a class‑action lawsuit, arguing their removals crossed a line with consequences beyond their own cases. What the legal challenge could mean for agents working controversial investigations and for the Bureau itself is the focus of our conversation with former FBI agent David Sundberg.

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A new strategic plan signals how the Office of Special Counsel sees its responsibilities evolving over the next five years

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The Office of Special Counsel occupies a complicated place in the federal system; part protector, part enforcer and increasingly, a test of trust for career employees. As demand rises and scrutiny intensifies, OSC is formally defining how it sees that role over the next five years. My guest is Charles Baldis, senior counsel and designee to the acting special counsel at the Office of Special Counsel.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - Thursday, April 23, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

A new strategic plan signals how the Office of Special Counsel sees its responsibilities evolving over the next five years
The outcome of one lawsuit could shape how future FBI investigations are handled
Two Pentagon workforce decisions are raising new concerns about capacity and consent

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OPM and GSA embark on plans to consolidate headquarters

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The federal government’s landlord and its human resources office are embarking on plans to share the same headquarters. The Office of Personnel Management and the General Services Administration are moving together under one roof. This is the latest example of agencies in the Washington, D.C. area moving out of headquarters that aren’t meeting minimum occupancy requirements recently set by law. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With the federal workforce at a 15-year low, some agencies are looking to hire

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

After major staffing reductions under the Trump administration, the federal workforce is at a 15-year low. But now, some agencies are reversing course and talking again about expanding recruitment opportunities. That comes as administration officials are also pushing for hiring reforms, like technical assessments and pooled recruitment. For the latest on agency hiring prospects, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman sat down with vice president of government affairs at the Partnership for Public Service, Jenny Mattingley.

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A major environmental decision is now locked in, with lingering questions about the process behind it

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The National Nuclear Security Administration has finalized a site‑wide environmental impact statement for Los Alamos, shaping the lab’s path for years to come. Reviewers say the process raises important questions about how impacts were evaluated and what assumptions were made and how those choices may ripple through future oversight and planning. Joining me to explain where process missteps might affect future implementation is Dr. Dylan Spaulding, a senior scientist at the Union of Concerned Scientists.

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Quantum computing is a national priority, but who’s actually in charge?

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The federal government’s national strategy for quantum computing lays out broad goals, but a new GAO review finds gaps in coordination, accountability, and performance measurement across agencies. We’ll walk through what’s missing and what updating the strategy could change with Candace Wright, director for science, technology assessment, and analytics at the Government Accountability Office.

Read the report here: https://files.gao.gov/reports/GAO-26-107759/index.html?_gl=1*1u44tf*_ga*MTc1Mjk3OTI1MC4xNzQ2NjUwOTc0*_ga_V393SNS3SR*czE3NzQ2MjcyOTMkbzQ4JGcwJHQxNzc0NjI3MzAyJGo1MSRsMCRoMA..

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Wednesday, April 22, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

The real challenge with AI and advanced computing is closing the gap between where the technology exists and who can actually use it
Quantum computing is a national priority, but who’s actually in charge?
A major environmental decision is now locked in, with lingering questions about the process behind it

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The real challenge with AI and advanced computing is closing the gap between where the technology exists and who can actually use it

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Advanced computing and AI are reshaping nearly every sector, but access to those capabilities remains uneven. The National Science Foundation is launching a new effort aimed at broadening who can use advanced computing. Dr. Erwin Gianchandani joins me from the National Science Foundation.

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Marine Corps looks to AI and cloud services in effort to accelerate delivery to warfighters

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The challenge of delivering capabilities to warfighters at a faster rate is hardly a new problem for the Defense Department. But with the rise of artificial intelligence and cloud services, there may be no better opportunity to shift the timetable and accelerate delivery. For more on how at least the Marine Corps is cutting down the time it takes to deliver capabilities, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller talked to David Raley, the chief digital business officer of the Marine Corps Community Services, about a platform that is cutting down the time to delivery to as little as 15 minutes.

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OMB looks to hold agencies accountable for how they buy commercial items

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

For perhaps the first time since the Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act became law in 1994, the Office of Management and Budget is holding agencies accountable for how they buy commercial items. What’s different now is that OMB wants agencies to prove they’re meeting the spirit and intent, not just the letter, of the law. For more on how OMB is raising the bar, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.

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Sometimes even a solid argument isn’t enough to save a bid protest

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The Court of Federal Claims agreed that the Navy mishandled affiliate past performance in a major procurement, then rejected the protest on procedural grounds. The Noblis decision is a cautionary tale about record discipline, expert evidence and the limits of post‑hoc fixes. Here to walk us through the case is Zach Prince, partner at Haynes Boone.

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Political transitions test how disciplined contractors really are about risk, compliance and decision‑making

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Periods immediately after an election are often defined less by new rules than by unanswered questions. For government contractors, that uncertainty can create real legal, contractual, and operational risk long before policies change. Joining me to talk about how contractors can prepare for political transitions without overcorrecting is partner at Jenner and Block, David Robbins.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Budgets don’t just fund programs. They tell the workforce—and industry—what the government values most

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Looking at the president’s defense budget request, the story isn’t just how much money is there, but what the administration is asking the Pentagon to lean into. Meanwhile, shutdown‑related delays at DHS are testing contractor resilience in real time. Jim Carroll, CEO of the Professional Services Council, joins us to walk through the real world impacts.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - Tuesday, April 21, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Budgets don’t just fund programs. They tell the workforce and industry what the government values most
Political transitions test how disciplined contractors really are about risk, compliance and decision‑making
Sometimes even a solid argument isn’t enough to save a bid protest

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Forest Service plans to carry out major reorganization with or without approval from Congress

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Forest Service is defending its plan to relocate its headquarters out West and shutter most of its research facilities, as part of a major agency reorganization. The agency is looking to move its headquarters to Salt Lake City, Utah and close all of its regional offices. The agency is making its case to Congress, but says it will proceed with these plans with or without approval from lawmakers. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

DHS officials warn about growing shutdown backlogs

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Department of Homeland Security has now been in a shutdown for more than two months. DHS officials are warning Congress about growing backlog of contracts, cancelled planning activities, and more impacts as the shutdown drags on. For the latest, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The rising cost of security is reshaping who can run for office and how campaigns operate

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Running for federal office now comes with security costs that were once rare and those costs are rising fast. A new analysis looks at how the growing need for personal and digital security is changing who can realistically run for office, and how campaigns operate behind the scenes. We’ll talk through what that shift means for access, participation, and the health of democratic institutions, with Justin Sherman of the Public Service Alliance.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Congress is often treated like an abstract institution, but it’s also a workplace, with real security pressures and family realities

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Behind the scenes on Capitol Hill, concerns about personal safety, logistics and family well‑being shape how members and staff experience the job day to day. We’ll take a practical look at how those very human factors affect focus, capacity, and the ability to do sustained legislative work. Danielle Stewart from the POPVOX Foundation joins me.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Congress is building a path to resolution for DHS — even as it opens the next appropriations cycle

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

DHS remains the only federal agency operating without a finalized 2026 appropriations bill, leaving Congress to rely on an unusually intricate reconciliation process to reach an outcome. All of this is happening as lawmakers begin shaping 2027 spending plans, layering urgency onto an already stalled debate. We’ll walk through the implications with Capitol Hill Correspondent for WTOP, Mitchell Miller.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Monday, April 20, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Congress is building a path to resolution for DHS, even as it opens the next appropriations cycle
Congress is often treated like an abstract institution, but it’s also a workplace, with real security pressures and family realities
The rising cost of security is reshaping who can run for office — and how campaigns operate

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OPM adds cybersecurity jobs to Tech Force hiring program

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Trump administration is widening its lens for recruiting technologists to the federal workforce. The Office of Personnel Management has just expanded the Tech Force hiring program to include opportunities for cybersecurity specialists. Here with the latest, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

DoD seeks to curb high military spouse unemployment with expanded hiring flexibilities

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The White House has set a goal to reduce military spouse unemployment by 5%, but there is only so much it can do since it significantly scaled back federal hiring. Now, the Defense Department is stepping in with new efforts to address the issue. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

ARPA‑H’s “1 Cure” program is betting that smarter design can expand cancer care to more people, faster

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The promise of ARPA‑H isn’t just speed, but intention, building ambitious research programs around patient impact rather than hype. One of its newest efforts aims to make cancer treatment simpler, more accessible, and easier to deploy. Here to explain the vision behind “1 Cure,” is the Program Manager Dr. Wilfred Ngwa.

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A new digital catalog is changing how the public can engage with America’s overseas war memorials and records

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

For decades, the American Battle Monuments Commission has served as guardian of U.S. military cemeteries and memorials around the world. A new online catalog now extends that mission by making records and collections accessible far beyond those physical sites. We’ll look at who benefits most and what this access makes possible with Charlotte Meunier, museum curator for the American Battle Monuments Commission.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Friday, April 17, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

A new digital catalog is changing how the public can engage with America’s overseas war memorials and records
ARPA‑H’s “1 Cure” program is betting that smarter design can expand cancer care to more people, faster

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

CISA spikes CyberCorps internships amid shutdown

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency will not offer internships to CyberCorps Scholarship for Service students this summer due to the government shutdown. It’s the second year in a row CISA has withdrawn the internships. But the Office of Personnel Management is rolling out new cybersecurity job opportunities this week. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

‘Less people and better results:’ IRS CEO says filing season goals met after 27% staffing cut

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The IRS is touting its performance during this year’s filing season as evidence that it can still carry out its tax duties despite losing more than a quarter of its workforce under the Trump administration. The agency’s top official says technology improvements at the IRS are making it easier for taxpayers to get help online and that it’s seen a year-over-year decrease in phone calls. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A big refund feels good, but getting more of your money throughout the year may feel better

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Many federal employees treat tax refunds as a bonus, even though they reflect pay that could have arrived earlier with different planning. In a moment when many families are reassessing work, finances, and long‑term decisions like college, timing and strategy matter. Here to help feds think through both is president of Armed Forces Mutual, Mike Meese.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A proposed federal personnel shift could chill whistleblowers long before anyone gets fired

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

As agencies begin reclassifying parts of the federal workforce to Schedule Policy/career, the Project on Government Oversight warns that shifts in the rules may carry real consequences for whistleblowers. Their analysis argues Congress, not agencies is the key backstop for ensuring protections apply regardless of classification. Here to walk us through the risks is Joe Spielberger, Senior policy counsel at the POGO.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Many former federal employees are navigating the job market for the first time in years and finding that networking looks different

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Many former federal employees are navigating the job market for the first time in years, only to find that the rules around hiring and networking have shifted. Research suggests the process feels more transactional, but that doesn’t mean experience and competence no longer matter. Helping us make sense of the new normal is managing director of business intelligence at Express Employment International, Stephanie Miller.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - Thursday, April 16, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Many former federal employees are navigating the job market for the first time in years and finding that networking looks and feels different than they remember
A proposed federal personnel shift could chill whistleblowers long before anyone gets fired
A big refund feels good, but getting more of your money throughout the year may feel better

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

House Democrats deepen investigation into federal retirement delays

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

House Democrats are doubling down on their investigation into the Trump administration’s management of the government’s retirement processing system. That comes as some federal retirees remain without annuities months after submitting their applications. Here with the latest, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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OMB: ERM going from compliance exercise to management tool

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

When the Office of Management and Budget decided to remove the specific section on enterprise risk management from Circular A-123, Eric Ueland, the deputy director for management, received some direct feedback. For more on why Ueland says the ERM community’s unhappiness with OMB’s decision is overblown, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now with details.

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GAO finds most of the Pentagon’s joint bases are falling short of facility sustainment goals, raising new questions about readiness and accountability

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

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

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As the Department of Labor faces scrutiny over fraud and oversight, its new IG is bringing a law‑enforcement mindset to the job

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

From unemployment insurance to workforce programs, the stakes for fraud oversight at Labor remain high. The department’s inspector general says his law‑enforcement experience influences how he prioritizes cases and assesses risk. Anthony D’Esposito, the DOL IG, joins me now to discuss his approach to this important work.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Wednesday, April 15, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

As the Department of Labor faces intense scrutiny over fraud and oversight, its new inspector general is bringing a law‑enforcement mindset to the job
GAO finds most of the Pentagon’s joint bases are falling short of facility sustainment goals, raising new questions about readiness and accountability

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Navy takes big steps to reduce it sprawling IT networks

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

For the Navy, consolidating and reducing its sprawling IT networks has been a decades‑long effort. But in recent years, the pace has picked up. Starting from several thousand networks, the service expects to be down to fewer than 100 by next year. Scott St. Pierre, the Navy’s director of enterprise networks and cybersecurity, spoke with Federal News Network’s Jared Serbu at our recent DoD Modernization Exchange.

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CDC eases telework restrictions for disabled employees, as HHS faces 9,000-request backlog

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is giving employees with disabilities more flexibility to telework as a reasonable accommodation. CDC supervisors will once again be able to grant telework as an interim reasonable accommodation, while employees wait for final approval from the Department of Health and Human Services. HHS rolled out a new policy last year that strictly limited medical telework. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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Big ideas and big missions still live or die on budgets and contracts, and this year’s request raises questions

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

While agencies talk about modernizing data practices and accelerating research, the President’s budget request reveals where execution pressure is likely to land first. From FY27 funding priorities to what Artemis II showed about how complex missions really get done, we’ll break down what matters most for agencies and contractors with Stephanie Kostro, president of the Professional Services Council.

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As federal agencies rethink how data moves, they’re also rethinking how ideas move, especially from the lab to policymakers

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

This week, early‑career scientists will step up to a microphone and have three minutes to explain their research to policymakers, without jargon and with only one slide. The National Lab Research SLAM is designed to move ideas out of the lab and into federal decision‑making faster. Here to tell us what to watch as it gets underway is Antonya Sanders from Los Alamos National Laboratory.

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New technology is changing how federal agencies use personal data and this week, new tools aim to show what responsible use should really look like

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

From cross‑agency data sharing to AI‑driven analysis, federal programs now rely on personal information in ways the Privacy Act never fully anticipated. As new APDU resources roll out this week, they aim to clarify how data actually moves, where risks emerge, and what reasonable expectations should look like today. Bethanne Barnes from the Association of Public Data Users joins me to walk through those challenges.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Tuesday, April 14, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

New technology is changing how federal agencies use personal data and this week, new tools aim to show what responsible use should really look like
As federal agencies rethink how data moves, they’re also rethinking how ideas move, especially from the lab to policymakers
Big ideas and big missions still live or die on budgets and contracts, and this year’s request raises some important questions about execution

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

AI poses urgent challenges to how agencies handle CUI

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Agencies have long struggled to manage so-called controlled unclassified information, or CUI. Now artificial intelligence is posing new and urgent challenges to how agencies handle, share and protect that sensitive information. But federal executives also see opportunities to use AI to modernize their approach to CUI. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The government paid $4.5 billion to feds who took the DRP, one estimate shows

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The government paid an estimated $4.5 billion for federal employees not to work under the deferred resignation offer last year. The calculation comes from a new data report from the Partnership for Public Service. The organization’s report calculates other cost expenditures, all tied back to the Trump administration’s overhauls to the federal workforce. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Artificial intelligence may offer federal financial managers something they’ve long lacked: real visibility across programs and payments

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Instead of another systems overhaul, a new IBM Center report zeroes in on how metadata and AI can illuminate relationships across federal financial operations. That added visibility, the research argues, could help agencies spot improper payments and fraud much earlier in the process. Here to walk us through the key insights is executive director of the IBM Center for the Business of Government, Dan Chenok.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apportionments rarely make headlines, but they play a decisive role in how Congress’s funding decisions are actually carried out

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Apportionments are a core but often overlooked part of how congressional funding decisions are implemented across the executive branch. A new analysis highlights how deviations from historical or statutory patterns can create downstream risks for agencies, programs, and oversight. Breaking down what to watch for is Cerin Lindgrensavage, counsel at Protect Democracy.

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After a two‑week recess, Congress is back in Washington with a crowded spring agenda and several unfinished fights waiting on the Hill

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Lawmakers return to Capitol Hill this week facing pressure to move stalled legislation, navigate internal party tensions and make progress on must‑pass items before the calendar tightens further. We’ll walk through what’s realistically at the top of Congress’s agenda now that members are back in town, with Loren Duggan from Bloomberg Government.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Monday, April 13, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

After a two‑week recess, Congress is back in Washington with a crowded spring agenda and several unfinished fights waiting on the Hill
Apportionments rarely make headlines, but they play a decisive role in how Congress’s funding decisions are actually carried out. New analysis is drawing attention to patterns that warrant closer oversight
Artificial intelligence may offer federal financial managers something they’ve long lacked: real visibility across programs and payments

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After a nearly a decade, GSA on track to fully implement TDR

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

One of Ed Forst’s first priorities as GSA administrator has been finishing what’s been years in the making. In his first 100 days on the job, Forst moved to implement Transactional Data Reporting across all multiple award schedule contracts. To explain what that expansion means for agencies and vendors, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

White House seeks $17.5 billion for Golden Dome, but most funding hinges on reconciliation

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Trump administration’s Golden Dome missile defense system could receive $17.5 billion in fiscal 2027 after it received a $23 billion down payment last summer. But almost the entire sum hinges on another reconciliation bill. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.

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Health‑coverage decisions in retirement can shape when and how federal retirees tap their money

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Once federal employees leave service, decisions about FEHB and Medicare quickly intersect with how they draw income from the TSP. Those choices are easier to manage when they’re coordinated rather than made in isolation. Joining us to connect the dots is federal retirement expert Tammy Flanagan, principal at RetireFederal.

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The Washington DC metro region continues to stand out for regional job losses and new Brookings data shows the recovery still hasn’t materialized

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

New data from Brookings shows the Greater Washington region is still losing ground on jobs, raising questions about how economic systems tied to federal work are adapting or failing to over time. The region is responding strategically, but so far, those responses haven’t translated into measurable improvement. Here to explain what’s happening beneath the surface is Tracy Loh, fellow at the Brookings Institution.

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Artemis II is showing how federal education and operational experience come together in space

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Several Artemis team members bring military and academic backgrounds that reflect a long‑term federal investment in advanced education. Observers say the mission highlights how institutions like the Naval Postgraduate School translate classroom learning into real‑world mission execution. Joining us from mission control in Housing is science writer with the Naval Postgraduate School, Dan Linehan.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Friday, April 10, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Artemis II is showing how federal education and operational experience come together in space
The Washington DC metro region continues to stand out for regional job losses and new Brookings data shows the recovery still hasn’t materialized
Health‑coverage decisions in retirement can shape when and how federal retirees tap their money

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

TSA budget cuts jobs in privatization push

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Trump administration wants to start privatizing more airport security screening operations. The White House’s 2027 budget request would cut jobs at the Transportation Security Administration and shift much of that funding to private screening contractors . For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Political appointments surging, career SES workforce shrinking under Trump 2.0

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The federal government currently has both the largest political workforce and the lowest levels of senior career leaders in decades. A new report finds that there are now more political appointees in place under the Trump administration, than any other modern U.S. president. At the same time, senior career leadership staffing has gone down 30%. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Small businesses are navigating one of the most turbulent federal contracting environments in decades and the SBA Office of Advocacy is here to help

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy has released its first‑year report examining how small businesses are responding to rapid shifts in federal contracting and regulatory policy. The findings highlight both strain and adaptation as firms adjust to changing rules and agency practices. We’ll walk through what stood out and what comes next with Chip Bishop, Deputy Chief Counsel for Advocacy at the Small Business Administration.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

HUD’s first‑year reset on fair‑housing guidance is reshaping how landlords, owners, and local governments navigate federal housing rules

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

HUD’s decision to withdraw long‑standing fair housing guidance is changing how landlords, developers and local governments interpret their federal obligations, even as the underlying law remains the same. The move is raising new questions about compliance, enforcement and how much certainty housing providers can rely on as policy priorities shift. Helping us make sense of that landscape is Gwen Roy Harrison, a principal at Offit Kurman.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

GSA spent a $100 million on building studies, but an IG audit found the agency lacked a consistent way to track whether that work informed decisions

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Over a five‑year period, GSA’s Public Buildings Service obligated more than $100 million for building studies, but a new inspector general audit finds the agency lacked a consistent way to track those studies or whether their recommendations informed decisions. We’ll break down what the audit examined, what it found, and what GSA has been asked to fix with Michelle Westrup and Brian Gibson from the GSA Office of Inspector General.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - Thursday, April 9, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

GSA spent more than $100 million on building studies, but an inspector general audit found the agency lacked a consistent way to track whether that work informed decisions
HUD’s first‑year reset on fair‑housing guidance is reshaping how landlords, owners, and local governments navigate federal housing rules
Small businesses are navigating one of the most turbulent federal contracting environments in decades and the SBA Office of Advocacy is here to help

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

DoD still failing to properly mark CUI data years after initial audit

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Defense Department is once again facing scrutiny over how it handles sensitive but unclassified information, after a new watchdog review found that widespread problems identified years ago remain unresolved. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After DOGE-era cuts, GSA resumes hiring, scrutinizes in-office attendance for employees

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The General Services Administration, a former hub of activity for the Department of Government Efficiency is looking to hire hundreds of employees after facing deep workforce cuts last year. The agency’s top leader is also taking on a second job as the acting head of the National Archives and Records Administration. And for its current workforce, GSA is asking employees to provide a daily check-in on where they’re working. For a look at all of this, we’re joined by Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

DOGE’s Medicaid data experiment adds a new player to healthcare fraud enforcement: the public

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

By releasing a sweeping Medicaid claims dataset, DOGE is testing whether broader public analysis can complement government fraud investigations. The move raises questions about accuracy, accountability and whether this approach is scalable or sustainable. I'll walk through the pros and cons with John Barry, senior counsel at Epstein Becker Green.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From AI to DEI to national security, congressional oversight is widening and more agencies are being asked to explain how decisions get made

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Congress may be struggling to pass legislation, but it’s not slowing down when it comes to oversight. Investigations in 2026 are moving faster, stretching wider, and pulling in companies, universities, and nonprofits that may not see themselves as obvious targets. Joining me to break down what’s driving this moment and what smart preparation really looks like is Partner at Morgan Lewis, Amanda Robinson.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal transparency has improved on paper—but GAO says key gaps still undermine accountability and program integrity

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Congress and federal agencies have taken steps to improve transparency around spending and programs, but GAO says persistent gaps continue to limit oversight, efficiency and program integrity. From incomplete spending data to FOIA backlogs and missing program inventories, these weaknesses carry real operational consequences. To explain where transparency efforts are falling short and what would make the biggest difference, we’re joined by Jeff Arkin, Director of Strategic Issues at the Government Accountability Office.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Wednesday, April 8, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Federal transparency has improved on paper—but GAO says key gaps still undermine accountability and program integrity
From AI to DEI to national security, congressional oversight is widening and more agencies are being asked to explain how decisions get made
DOGE’s Medicaid data experiment adds a new player to healthcare fraud enforcement, the public

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

White House asks for record $75.7B for civilian agency IT

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The departments of Justice, Veterans Affairs and Treasury are among the biggest winners when it comes to increasing their technology budgets for 2027. These and a handful of other civilian agencies are driving the Trump administration’s record $75.7 billion IT request for next year. Here with more details and analysis of the 2027 IT budget request for civilian agencies, is Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump’s 2027 budget request doubles down on agency reorganizations panned by Congress

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Trump administration is once again pursuing deep spending cuts for federal civilian agencies, as part of its budget request for next year. Overall it’s proposing a 10% cut to nondefense discretionary spending. The White House is also doubling down on reorganization plans that Congress ignored in a comprehensive spending plans for this year. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The administration’s new cyber strategy bets that coordination, not regulation drives better security outcomes

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

More than 80% of U.S. critical infrastructure is owned by the private sector, putting public‑private collaboration at the center of the administration’s Cyber Strategy for America. We’ll examine what that partnership needs to look like in practice with John Miller of the Information Technology Industry Council.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The CAS Board is carrying out a congressional mandate with comments now open

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The Board’s proposal implements 2026 NDAA language aimed at simplifying CAS without losing oversight. With comments due soon, agencies and contractors are weighing how the rule reshapes compliance, audits, and long‑term contract management. We'll walk through the proposed rule and what happens next, with Dan Ramish, a partner at Haynes Boone.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OMB’s latest IT memo echoes years of policy, but signals some important shifts agencies can’t ignore

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

OMB memo M‑26‑10 revisits familiar themes around CIO authority and IT governance, but with sharper expectations for transparency, reporting, and shared responsibility. The question now is what agencies are expected to do differently and how this guidance changes day‑to‑day decision‑making for federal IT leaders. Here to walk us through the key points of the memo is former GSA Administrator and Senior Fellow at George Mason University’s Baroni Center for Government Contracting, Emily Murphy.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Tuesday, April 7, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

OMB’s latest IT memo echoes years of policy, but signals some important shifts agencies can’t ignore
The CAS Board is carrying out a congressional mandate with comments now open
The administration’s new cyber strategy bets that coordination, not regulation, drives better security outcomes

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

White House budget proposal silent on civilian federal pay raise

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The odds are not in federal employees’ favor for getting a pay raise next year. The White House’s budget request does not include any mention of a 2027 raise for civilian workers. That’s in contrast with a proposed raise of up to 7 percent for military members. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

White House seeks 5%–7% military pay raise in 2027 budget request

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The White House is proposing a significant military pay raise as part of its massive $1.5 trillion defense budget request. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal government shutdowns have become routine, but their impact on public safety is anything but routine

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Shutdowns are no longer rare events, and law‑enforcement leaders say that recurring uncertainty creates real risks for public safety agencies that rely on continuity and trust. The National Police Association is throwing its support behind the Eliminate Shutdowns Act as a way to break that cycle. Joining me to discuss why predictability matters so much for policing and public safety operations is Spokesperson for the National Police Association, Sergeant Betsy Brantner Smith.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Year after year, the same financial weaknesses keep showing up in the government’s books

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Another year, another GAO audit unable to certify the federal government’s financial statements. The latest report points to persistent problems that agencies and Congress have struggled to fix, despite targeted improvements in some areas. Joining us to explain what’s stuck and what could change is Dawn Simpson from GAO.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The President’s budget landed on Capitol Hill last week, but left plenty of unanswered questions

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The President’s budget proposal sets the stage, but much of the action is happening elsewhere on Capitol Hill. We begin with a look at how lawmakers are handling overlapping funding challenges and what comes next with Mitchell Miller, Capitol Hill Correspondent for WTOP.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Monday, April 6, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

The President’s budget landed on Capitol Hill last week, but left plenty of unanswered questions. We'll take a closer look at how Congress is navigating the budget moment
Year after year, the same financial weaknesses keep showing up in the government’s books
Federal government shutdowns have become routine, but their impact on public safety is anything but routine

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump administration recruiting project managers across agencies

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Trump administration is opening up more opportunities to expand hiring across government. In less than a week, the Office of Personnel Management has set up an “early-career talent network” and also launched a recruitment effort for project managers. The initiatives come after sweeping reductions to the federal workforce over the last year. Here with the latest, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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CyberCorps grads consider private sector as fed hiring challenges persist

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

A patchy federal job landscape is threatening to upend a longstanding cyber talent pipeline. Hundreds of students graduate from the CyberCorps Scholarship-for-Service program every year. But recent and soon-to-be graduates say they continue to face major challenges in finding federal job opportunities. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

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A new ARPA‑H effort aims to change how doctors understand and treat critical illness in real time

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

When patients become critically ill, their bodies often fall into a dangerous immune response loop that today’s ICU tools can’t fully see or stop. The CIRCLE program aims to give doctors a clearer roadmap by combining new sensors, faster lab insights, and digital models that predict how a patient will respond. Joining me to discuss long‑term promise for ICU care is Dr. Yoram Vodovotz, Program Manager for CIRCLE at ARPA‑H.

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Rubin Observatory just turned the night sky into a live feed and the universe is far busier than anyone imagined

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The launch of Rubin Observatory's alert system marks a breakthrough in astrophysics, giving scientists a real‑time stream of changes across the sky, from brightening stars to newly spotted asteroids. It’s one of the final steps before the Legacy Survey of Space and Time, which will scan the southern sky every night for a decade with unprecedented precision. Dr. Bob Blum joins us to share why this moment is so scientifically and cosmically exciting.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Friday, April 3, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Rubin Observatory just turned the night sky into a live feed and the universe is far busier than anyone imagined
A new ARPA‑H effort aims to change how doctors understand and treat critical illness in real time

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

TSA agents see partial paychecks

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Transportation Security Administration employees are seeing their first paychecks in more than a month. TSA agents are being paid this week despite lawmakers failing to come to an agreement on a Department of Homeland Security spending bill. That means thousands more DHS staff are continuing to work with out pay. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

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What Army civilians should consider before accepting VERA or VSIP

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

As Army civilians who have been identified as “surplus” begin receiving automated notices giving them a few days to decide whether to accept a reassignment, retire early or opt in for a buyout, many are making these life-altering decisions with limited information. Here with an update to her story from Monday is Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis.

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A military family’s decades‑long journey with autism is now helping other families navigate a system that often feels impossible to manage

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

April is World Autism Month, and for military families, navigating autism care often means navigating multiple systems at once. Jaime and Tracy Parent have spent more than thirty years raising an autistic child while moving through diagnoses, deployments, school changes and the maze of military and civilian support programs. Their new book, "The Mission at Home," turns that lived experience into practical guidance for families facing the same transitions and gaps in care. We’ll hear from Jaime and Tracy about what they’ve learned and what still needs to change.

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A large TSP balance is a success story, until Required Minimum Distributions turn it into a tax problem

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Federal employees often retire with two advantages many Americans don’t have: a steady pension and a sizable TSP. But when Required Minimum Distributions kick in, those income streams can collide, triggering higher taxes and unexpected ripple effects. We’ll look at how that happens and why planning years ahead can change the outcome with Thiago Glieger of RMG Advisors.

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Shutdowns don’t just disrupt agencies, they disrupt household finances, and the data shows it almost immediately

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Federal employees may eventually be made whole after a shutdown, but the timing matters. After the most recent missed paycheck, data from USAA shows requests for financial relief spiking among federal workers, highlighting short‑term cash‑flow pressures even when back pay is expected. We’ll walk through what those patterns reveal about how workers navigate fixed bills and uncertainty with Daniel Diaz, spokesperson for USAA Bank.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Thursday, April 2, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Shutdowns don’t just disrupt agencies, they disrupt household finances, and the data shows it almost immediately
A large TSP balance is a success story until Required Minimum Distributions turn it into a tax problem
A military family’s decades‑long journey with autism is now helping other families navigate a system that often feels impossible to manage

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Treasury prepares RIF for office created to avoid financial crisis, IRS IT resumes hiring after mass reassignments

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

More shakeup at the Treasury Department. The department is preparing for targeted layoffs at an office focused on monitoring the stability of the U.S. financial system. And over at the IRS, its IT shop is back in hiring mode. This comes after it permanently reassigned more than 1,200 IT employees to other parts of the agency. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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Harsher penalties for contractors who violate new DEI EO

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Federal contractors have been required to comply with the Trump administration’s mandate to remove anything that is considered diversity, equity and inclusion for the past 15 months. But under President Donald Trump’s new executive order, signed last week, vendors face harsher penalties that could include False Claims Act lawsuits as well as possible suspension and debarment. For more on why this new order goes further than previous efforts, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me to discuss.

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During COVID, SBA moved fast to deliver disaster loans, but GAO says limited access to IRS tax data made oversight harder and increased program risk

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

When disaster loan programs scale up quickly, data sharing becomes critical. GAO says outdated systems and manual consent requirements limited SBA’s access to IRS tax data during COVID, leaving oversight gaps even as billions went out the door. Joining me to break down why that matters and where progress has been made is Director for Financial Markets and Community Investment at GAO, Courtney LaFountain.

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U.S. Strategic Command has awarded a $500 million IDIQ contract to accelerate delivery of warfighter‑ready solutions as defense needs evolve

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

U.S. Strategic Command has awarded a $500 million IDIQ contract to the University of Nebraska’s National Strategic Research Institute to support warfighter‑ready solutions. The award is structured to emphasize speed, flexibility, and direct operational relevance rather than one‑off research projects. Joining me to talk through how these funds will advance STRATCOM's mission is the Director of NSRI, Rick Evans.

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As uncertainty clouds federal research budgets, a new analysis shows how NIH funding ripples through state and local economies nationwide

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The National Institutes of Health funding touches far more than major research institutions. A new analysis maps how those dollars support jobs and businesses nationwide. United for Medical Research’s latest report breaks down the geographic reach of that impact and why timing matters as budgets tighten. Joining us to walk through the findings is Caitlin Leach, President of United for Medical Research.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Wednesday, April 1, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

As uncertainty clouds federal research budgets, a new analysis shows how NIH funding ripples through state and local economies nationwide
U.S. Strategic Command has awarded a $500 million IDIQ contract to accelerate delivery of warfighter‑ready solutions as defense needs evolve
During COVID, SBA moved fast to deliver disaster loans, but GAO says limited access to IRS tax data made oversight harder and increased program risk

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 concept of a single IT network moves closer to reality

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0000

The Army has been talking for many years about the concept of a single IT network. But it’s made real, measurable progress recently. The service started with 42 networks, then reduced the number to 19, and then just five over the last few years. At the same time, the Army is moving toward more software-defined networks. Leo Garciga is the Army’s chief information officer. He talked about those initiatives with Federal News Network’s Jason Miller.

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Army ‘rebalancing’ effort forces civilians to accept reassignments to avoid layoffs

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0000

The Army is moving thousands of civilian employees into new roles under a sweeping “rebalancing” effort aimed at avoiding layoffs — but workers are required to accept a reassignment within days or risk separation from federal service. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.

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Contractors are playing a bigger role in TSA screening and national security AI, but that raises new questions about accountability and execution

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

As the DHS shutdown highlights stress points in TSA operations, a long‑running federal program that relies on contractors is getting renewed attention just as agencies are also leaning more heavily on industry partners for artificial intelligence in national security. To connect those dots, I'm joined by Stephanie Kostro, President of the Professional Services Council.

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The administration says new Medicaid work rules will save money, but first, states will spend a lot figuring out how to make them work

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

As the new work‑requirement mandates roll out, states are confronting a costly truth: their eligibility systems weren’t built for this level of verification. Upgrades, contractors and extra staff could push total costs past a billion dollars before a single dollar in federal savings is realized. We get the ground‑level view from AP’s David Lieb.

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A new approach to the Pentagon’s long‑troubled audit effort is taking shape as fresh leadership resets expectations

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

After years of failed attempts, the Defense Department is refining its strategy for achieving and sustaining a clean financial audit. With new financial management leaders in place and growing scrutiny from Congress, the pressure is shifting from progress to proof. To explain what’s different this time, we’re joined by the CEO of the Society of Defense Financial Management, Rich Brady.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Tuesday, March 31, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

A new approach to the Pentagon’s long‑troubled audit effort is taking shape as fresh leadership resets expectations
The administration says new Medicaid work rules will save money, but first, states will spend a lot figuring out how to make them work
Contractors are playing a bigger role in TSA screening and national security AI, but that raises new questions about accountability and execution

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

‘Significant’ staff cuts drive rising FOIA backlogs

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Freedom of Information Act backlogs have been increasing across government for years. But the Trump administration’s workforce cuts have deepened challenges for already strained federal FOIA offices. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

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‘Stressful, chaotic, never-ending:’ DoD employees face mounting strain as Middle East conflict widens

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

As the conflict in the Middle East escalates following the U.S. and Israel’s launch of “major combat operations” against Iran, Defense Department employees say the demands of a new war are adding strain to an already stretched workforce. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Monday, March 30, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Both the U.S. and the EU are quietly narrowing chances for the public to weigh in on new rules and one expert says it’s time to pay attention
Billions are flowing into munitions production, but there are limits to how quickly the U.S. can replenish its stockpiles
They’re on recess, but DHS funding, voting rules, and overseas troop support are all waiting when Congress comes back

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They’re on recess, but DHS funding, voting rules and overseas troop support are all waiting when Congress comes back

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Congress is heading into the Easter recess with the Department of Homeland Security still unfunded and no clear path to a deal. The president’s move to ensure TSA agents continue getting paid may buy time, but it doesn’t resolve the broader standoff or the demands piling up behind it. Loren Duggan of Bloomberg Government joins us with the latest read on where things stand and what’s likely to move—or harden—during the break.

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Billions are flowing into munitions production, but there are limits to how quickly the U.S. can replenish its stockpiles

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Ongoing U.S. operations tied to Iran are driving a rapid drawdown of munitions, putting new pressure on the defense industrial base. While billions have already been invested to expand production, questions remain about how resilient that system really is under stress. To explore what matters most right now, I’m joined by the Director, Center for the Industrial Base at CSIS, Jerry McGinn.

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Both the U.S. and the EU are quietly narrowing chances for the public to weigh in on new rules and one expert says it’s time to pay attention

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

New research argues that opportunities for public comment are shrinking on both sides of the Atlantic, as governments move faster and give people less time to respond. Those shortcuts may seem efficient, but they come with real risks for transparency and the quality of policymaking. Steven Balla, co-director of the regulatory studies center at George Washington University, is here to explain the pros and cons.

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VA restores AFGE labor contract, but isn’t implementing it, court documents show

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

A federal judge ordered the Department of Veterans Affairs to restore its labor contract with its largest union. The VA says it has complied with that ruling, but documents show that it isn’t actually implementing the contract’s provisions. The case focuses on an executive order President Donald Trump signed last year barring many agencies from collective bargaining. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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OPM’s Kupor would be ‘perfectly happy’ hiring more feds if contractors are cut

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Trump administration says it is open to hiring more federal employees, but with one big caveat. The Office of Personnel Management says that should only happen if agencies can cut down their contractor support. OPM Director Scott Kupor expanded on that idea and many of the administration’s other priorities during a House subcommittee hearing this week. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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As the country approaches its 250th anniversary, a new guide asks Americans to think differently about their role in democracy

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The National Urban League says many people are exhausted by political noise but still care deeply about the country’s future. Its new guide, released ahead of America’s 250th anniversary, is meant to meet people where they are and give them practical ways to engage. Joining us to explain the thinking behind it is Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League.

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After last year’s deadly mid‑air collision, Reagan National’s tower is finally getting modern tools built to cut workload and reduce risk on the ground

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The FAA’s Terminal Flight Data Manager system is now fully operational at DCA, bringing predictive tools, integrated surface displays, and a shared real‑time picture of the airfield. The goal is simple: fewer delays, stronger coordination, and a smoother experience for millions of passengers each year. We explore what travelers will notice and what comes next with Doug Lieberman, Vice President and CTO of air traffic for Leidos.

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A flagship government and industry leadership program is getting a fresh start with a new class and a new vision for 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

ACT-IAC has relaunched its Partners Program with a 2026 class built for a moment when government and industry are looking for steadier leadership. The new cohort brings together senior leaders who want to deepen their impact and learn from a Pathfinder team drawn from across agencies and major contractors. We get the big-picture view of this new chapter from ACT-IAC President and CEO, Dave Wennergren.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - Friday, March 27, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

A flagship government and industry leadership program is getting a fresh start with a new class and a new vision for 2026
After last year’s deadly mid‑air collision, Reagan National’s tower is finally getting modern tools built to cut workload and reduce risk on the ground
As the country approaches its 250th anniversary, a new guide asks Americans to think differently about their role in democracy

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Navy’s turning small ‘bets’ into enterprise services

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

These days you can bet on almost everything from sports to politics to the stock market. At the Department of the Navy, PEO Digital is making big bets on technology. As part of its shift to a more lean, startup mindset, the Navy is making small investments in technologies that they hope will deliver big results. For more on how the Navy’s Program Executive Office Digital is testing and deciding on its technology bets, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller talked to Louis Koplin, the acting program executive officer for the Navy’s PEO Digital.

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TSA employees at ‘breaking point’

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Department of Homeland Security shutdown has now stretched for more than 40 days. And Transportation Security Administration employees say they’ve reached a breaking point. TSA call outs are leading to delays at some airports. And the agency is losing staff as it prepares for record-high levels of travel this summer. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

War headlines and market volatility might rattle TSP investors, but history offers some important perspective

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

With U.S. markets down and volatility on the rise, war in the Middle East is adding a new layer of anxiety for TSP investors. History shows markets have reacted to past conflicts in uneven, but often surprising ways, and those lessons matter for today’s decisions. Joining me to talk through what to do, what to avoid, and how strategies differ for workers and retirees is financial planner Art Stein.

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Fixing the talent pipeline doesn’t require a single sweeping reform, but it does require coordination

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The Bipartisan Policy Center's new report argues that piecemeal reforms can’t solve today’s labor and skills challenges. Instead, it calls for a shared strategy that shapes decisions across education systems, workforce programs, and employers. We’ll explore what that would mean in practice with Margaret Spellings, former Secretary of Education and current president and CEO of the Bipartisan Policy Center.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Thursday, March 26, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Fixing the talent pipeline doesn’t require a single sweeping reform — but it does require coordination
War headlines and market volatility might rattle TSP investors—but history offers some important perspective

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After losing more than 350,000, an in-depth look at the state of the federal workforce

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

More than 350,000 federal employees left the government in 2025, whether voluntarily or by force. But some positions and agencies were more heavily targeted by the Trump administration, while others saw increases in their numbers. An in-depth analysis of data from the Office of Personnel Management reveals key details of where the federal workforce stands today. Federal News Network's Drew Friedman gets more from Drew DeSilver, a senior writer at the Pew Research Center.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

State Dept evaluations could push out more diplomats, after mass layoffs last year

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The State Department carried out widespread layoffs last summer. But it’s still scrutinizing its workforce. The Department is planning to potentially remove or reassign more Foreign Service employees who don’t meet new performance standards. This comes as the Trump administration is planning to limit the number of federal employees who can receive top marks on their annual performance reviews. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new center wants to turn regulatory “big ideas” into results that actually work on the ground

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The regulatory landscape around climate policy is shifting, and many agencies are left with outdated tools to manage modern risks. The Federation of American Scientists' Center for Regulatory Ingenuity hopes to give them a clearer path, offering practical guidance, partnerships and support for innovative approaches. We’ll talk through that mission with Dr. Hannah Safford, Associate Director of Climate and Environment at FAS.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As U.S. Marines move offshore near Iran, Washington is expanding its military options without committing to boots on the ground

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

When Americans hear about Marines deploying toward the Middle East, it can sound like the first step toward a ground war. In reality, these forces are often used to prevent leaders from being boxed into one. To explain what this deployment does; and doesn’t mean, I’m joined by combat veteran and national security expert, Colonel William Dunn.

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As climate pressures intensify, a new strategy argues the U.S. needs a water reset now, not years from now

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A new document from The Aspen Institute makes a blunt point: America’s water systems are strained by climate, growth and aging infrastructure, and the nation has no coherent plan to deal with these challenges. The report calls for a national framework to modernize infrastructure, reform governance and elevate water as a core economic issue. To find out more about what it will take to move this from proposal to action, I'm joined by Dr. Newsha Ajami, founding director of the Risk, Resilience, and Recovery program at Stanford.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Wednesday, March 25, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

As climate pressures intensify and no federal entity owns a national water agenda, a new strategy argues the U.S. needs a water reset now, not years from now
As U.S. Marines move offshore near Iran, Washington is expanding its military options without committing to boots on the ground
A new center wants to turn regulatory “big ideas” into results that actually work on the ground

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OPM’s Kupor on administration's merit hiring plan

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

It’s been nearly 10 months since the Trump Administration unveiled its “merit hiring” plan. And the plan has changed a bit since then, along with the administration’s overall workforce goals. Strict quotas for workforce reduction are gone, for example. And there’s a new emphasis on pooled recruitment for technical jobs. Scott Kupor is the director of the Office of Personnel Management. He shared a progress report with Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Under Trump 2.0, federal employees disengaged, dissatisfied, survey shows

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Federal employees are reporting significantly diminished engagement in their jobs and declining views of political leadership. New survey results from the Partnership for Public Service show major drops in satisfaction and morale during 2025. That’s after a year of upheavals across the federal workforce. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As GSA prepares its next Schedule refresh, contractors are weighing how AI fits into rules that weren’t built for it

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

We’ve been talking about what’s changing in GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule and how contractors will have to respond. The next question is how industry is reacting, especially as agencies try to buy AI through systems that weren’t designed for it. To take us there, I’m joined by Jim Carroll, CEO of the Professional Services Council.

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The U.S. is pushing back on foreign data‑sovereignty rules and it could reshape how global companies handle their information

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The administration is telling American diplomats to challenge foreign data‑localization laws, raising fresh concerns for firms that move data across borders. Those rules are multiplying overseas, creating real tension for companies already navigating privacy, compliance and fast‑moving AI demands. To understand the practical implications of this new approach, I'm joined by Robert Cruz, vice president for regulatory and information governance at Smarsh.

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GSA has issued its first-ever acquisition clause aimed squarely at AI, contractors are already warning it could be a game changer

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The General Services Administration is rolling out the government’s first acquisition regulation clause written specifically for artificial intelligence systems. It sets sweeping new rules on data ownership, licensing, disclosure and who’s on the hook when AI is used in contract performance—raising red flags across the contracting community. We’ll break down what’s in the clause, who it applies to, and why industry groups are pushing back, with Dan Ramish, Partner with Haynes Boone.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Tuesday, March 24, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

GSA has issued its first-ever acquisition clause aimed squarely at artificial intelligence—and contractors are already warning it could be a game changer
The U.S. is pushing back on foreign data‑sovereignty rules, and it could reshape how global companies handle their information
As GSA prepares its next Schedule refresh, contractors are weighing how AI fits into rules that weren’t built for it

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mullin to revoke Noem’s $100K review policy

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

President Trump’s new choice to lead the Department of Homeland Security is advancing toward Senate confirmation. Markwayne Mullin had his nomination hearing before the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee last week. In some areas, he tried to present a sharp contrast to outgoing Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins with more.

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The Trump administration's AI message is sending mixed messages

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Trump administration is sending industry mixed messages when it comes to artificial intelligence. On one hand, the White House is emphasizing the use of commercial products and standards. But on the other, recent actions by DoD and GSA send the exact opposite message. For more on how the administration is causing confusion and concern in the federal market when it comes to AI, Federal News Network's executive editor Jason Miller joins me to discuss.

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Practical politics and some strategic horse trading may be returning to Congress

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Facing pressure to act on national security and domestic priorities, lawmakers appear more willing to negotiate across issue lines. That includes DHS funding and confirmations, questions about authorizing military operations and funding them, and unresolved bills touching surveillance, housing, and financial policy. To assess whether this moment leads to real progress, we’re joined by Capitol Hill Correspondent for WTOP, Mitchell Miller.

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With travel season ramping up, the CDC just hit a record number of volunteers to help monitor any viruses on the move

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Over one million people have now participated in the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Traveler-Based Genomic Surveillance. The purely voluntary program helps to detect and respond to emerging public health threats. To learn more about the scope of the program and what this milestone means, Federal News Network’s Eric White spoke with Heather Reese, who leads the TGS program at the CDC.

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A strategic alliance between the Federal Laboratories Consortium and FedTech is looking to speed up real‑world technology

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A new alliance between the FLC and FedTech is aimed at solving a long‑standing gap; connecting federally funded R&D with entrepreneurs ready to build real products and companies. The partnership promises practical support for labs, small businesses, and regional innovation ecosystems. We explore what’s ahead with Paige George of the Federal Laboratory Consortium.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Monday, March 23, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

A strategic alliance between the Federal Laboratories Consortium and FedTech is looking to speed up how federally funded research becomes real‑world technology
With travel season ramping up, the CDC just hit a record number of volunteers to help monitor any viruses on the move
Practical politics—and some strategic horse trading—may be returning to Congress

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

USPS cutting delivery days ‘on the table,’ as agency runs out of cash, postmaster general tells lawmakers

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Postal Service says it’s close to running out of cash and may need to cut delivery days. USPS is asking lawmakers to step in and offer some assistance. Congress passed major postal reform legislation in four years ago, but the mail agency is still seeing multi-billion dollar annual net losses. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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As Golden Dome’s price tag rises, some say new estimate is no more credible

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Pentagon’s ambitious “Golden Dome” missile defense system is getting more expensive. New estimates from the Defense Department put the price tag at $185 billion; that's $10 billion more than the president originally said it would cost. But some analysts say the new estimate is no more believable than the president’s initial price tag. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.

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A mixed‑reality rollout from the Army National Guard is giving students a firsthand look at the skills and careers behind disaster response

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

A new program called “Disasterville” brings National Guard missions into schools through a mix of physical props and virtual reality, letting students step into the middle of a flood, wildfire, or earthquake response. It’s part of a broader effort to build awareness of the Guard’s role in disaster relief. Here to explain the effort is Staff Sergeant Adam Szabo from the National Guard Bureau.

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A new “drone killer” cartridge aims to give Marines a simple, low‑cost way to stop small drones with the rifles they already carry

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

As adversaries lean heavily on small drones for surveillance and strikes, U.S. forces need a response that doesn’t slow them down. Engineers focused on low cost and plug‑and‑play integration and early testing suggests they may have found it. We talk through the capability with Brian Hoffman, Man-Portable Weapons Chief Engineer at Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane.

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With drones now touching everything from security to agriculture, The University of Texas at El Paso is gearing up to build the technology

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

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

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Friday, March 20, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

A mixed‑reality rollout from the Army National Guard is giving students a firsthand look at the skills and careers behind disaster response
With drones now touching everything from security to agriculture, The University of Texas at El Paso is gearing up to train the people and build the technology that this new landscape demands
A new “drone killer” cartridge aims to give Marines a simple, low‑cost way to stop small drones with the rifles they already carry

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Defense secretary launches "ruthless review" of military's legal offices

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has launched a “ruthless” review of how the military’s legal offices are organized. Experts say while there is room to streamline these offices’ operations, the review will likely be used to thin out the ranks of military lawyers. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.

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Agencies are starting to take action on the new national cyber strategy

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Trump administration’s new national cyber strategy is starting to translate into agency actions. But there are still a lot of questions about what comes next with the implementation of the strategy. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

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So many personnel policies are shifting at the same time that even seasoned federal workers are struggling to follow

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Several weeks into the DHS shutdown, front‑line employees from TSA to the Coast Guard are working without pay as airport delays mount and families feel the strain. At the same time, the administration is accelerating major personnel changes, from Schedule Policy/Career conversions to new RIF rules that could redefine job security for tens of thousands of federal workers. We’ll connect all of those threads now with John Hatton, Staff Vice President for Policy and Programs at NARFE.

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The message from Maryland, losing a federal job doesn’t have to mean leaving the region

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

As federal workers and contractors navigate sudden disruption, Maryland leaders are focused on keeping families housed, connected, and economically mobile. Housing tied to transit and new pathways into emerging industries are central to that strategy. We'll learn more from Congressman Glenn Ivey of Maryland and Bryan Franklin, Deputy Director of LISC-DC.

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What happened inside government last year explains many of today’s gaps in capacity and accountability

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Traditional guardrails eroded quickly during the Trump administration’s first year, with ethics bodies sidelined and inspectors general forced out while DOGE tested the limits of its authority. The result was a federal landscape with fewer protections and less capacity just as major decisions were being made. To dig into what that means for rebuilding, I’m joined by Faith Williams of the Project on Government Oversight.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Thursday, March 19, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Coming up today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

What happened inside government last year explains many of today’s gaps in capacity and accountability
The message from Maryland: losing a federal job doesn’t have to mean leaving the region
So many personnel policies are shifting at the same time that even seasoned federal workers are struggling to follow which changes matter most right now

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OPM launches new HR shared service center for agencies

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Agencies have a new opportunity to get help with modernizing their HR functions. A new “HR shared service center” from the Office of Personnel Management launched this week. If agencies opt into OPM’s offer, for a fee, they’ll get access to a suite of IT tools to streamline their human capital management capabilities. Here with more, Federal News Network’s Drew Friedman.

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Trump brings ‘war on fraud’ into focus with task force of benefits-paying agencies

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

President Donald Trump promised he would wage a “war on fraud” at his State of the Union address. Now those plans are coming into focus. A new executive order calls on nearly a dozen benefits-paying agencies to come up with ways to reduce fraudulent payments. Vice President JD Vance will lead the task force. Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

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GAO finds persistent gaps and data problems in OMB’s federal program inventory, limiting its value for oversight and decision‑making

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The federal program inventory was meant to give policymakers a clear picture of what the government does and how much it spends. GAO says that picture remains incomplete, with missing programs, outdated listings, and inconsistent data undermining confidence in the site. Here to walk through GAO’s findings and what OMB needs to fix is Dawn Locke, Director in GAO’s Strategic Issues team.

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A major reboot of the government’s small‑innovation programs is finally moving after months of uncertainty

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The Senate has advanced a bill that would reauthorize the SBIR and STTR programs through 2031 after a long lapse, and it comes with some notable changes for small R&D firms. The package adds tougher foreign‑risk screening and introduces new “Strategic Breakthrough” Phase II awards that can reach up to $30 million. We’ll look at what those shifts mean for innovators and contracting officers with Emily Murphy, former GSA Administrator.

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New limits on executive pay and dividends are changing expectations across the defense sector

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The administration’s new rules on executive pay, dividends and other financial tools haven’t moved defense earnings, but they’re already reshaping how companies think about future contracts. Those limits could eventually influence everything from talent pipelines to supply‑chain stability as they get written into deals over the coming year. We get the latest market signals and industry reactions from Paul Murphy of Bloomberg Government.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Wednesday, March 18, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

New limits on executive pay and dividends are changing expectations across the defense sector, even if the effects haven’t hit earnings yet
A major reboot of the government’s small‑innovation programs is finally moving after months of uncertainty
GAO finds persistent gaps and data problems in OMB’s federal program inventory, limiting its value for oversight and decision‑making

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the Navy pushes to embed 5th generation wireless technologies across its system, we get an update

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Navy is in the middle of a year-long push to embed fifth-generation wireless technologies across its systems and installations. And the service’s 5G Integrated Product Team says it’s “making progress” on expanding network coverage. Jason Fox is the director of the 5G IPT in the Department of the Navy Office of the Chief Information Officer. He talked with Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday about that progress.

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Navy creating new contract center for excellence for SBIR, STTR

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

As soon as President Donald Trump signs the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer program reauthorization act into law, the Department of Navy will be ready. While the House still needs to do its job and pass the SBIR bill, the Navy has been using the last six months to update its program. With a sneak peak into the Navy’s plans for the future of its SBIR program, Federal News Network executive editor Jason Miller joins me now.

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From the Strait of Hormuz to the factory floor, today’s Middle East operations are reshaping what the Pentagon asks of its contractors

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Ongoing U.S. military operations in the Middle East are stretching supply chains, increasing demand for munitions and intelligence, and raising new questions about how long industry can sustain the pace without supplemental funding. Behind every deployment, contractors are providing the logistics, technology, and support that make operations possible. Joining me to break down what this moment means for industry is President of the Professional Services Council, Stephanie Kostro.

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A military widow who turned her deepest loss into a decade of service is being honored with one of TAPS’ highest awards

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

For more than a decade, Sara Wilson has been a steady presence for families navigating military grief, from Good Grief Camps to crisis support in some of the hardest moments. Her peer‑to‑peer networks, advocacy work, and calm guidance have strengthened the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, or TAPS, community at home and abroad. She joins me ahead of receiving the Senator Ted Stevens Leadership Award at this year’s TAPS Honor Guard Gala.

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CBO's latest assessment shows a federal outlook defined by rising costs, structural imbalances and tough choices ahead

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

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

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Tuesday, March 17, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

CBO's latest assessment shows a federal outlook defined by rising costs, structural imbalances and tough choices ahead
A military widow who turned her deepest loss into a decade of service is being honored with one of TAPS’ highest awards
From the Strait of Hormuz to the factory floor, today’s Middle East operations are reshaping what the Pentagon asks of its contractors

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

GSA to be designated as QSMO for acquisition

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The General Services Administration is set to lead an acquisition system consolidation across government. That’s because GSA will be designated a “quality service management office” for acquisition. For more on what that means and what comes next, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lawmakers question DoD’s growing use of equity investments to strengthen DIB

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Defense Department has begun taking a series of equity stakes in companies deemed critical to national security. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have questions about the new strategy. Federal News Network’s Anastasia Obis has more.

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Escalating conflict abroad is now driving debates over war powers, energy prices and the fate of key funding bill

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Democrats are signaling they may force votes tied to the Iran conflict while leadership scrambles to keep DHS funding and other priorities on track. Energy interventions meant to blunt price spikes are adding new economic pressure that could reshape the legislative lineup. We’ll look at how these forces converge on Capitol Hill with Loren Duggan, Deputy News Director at Bloomberg Government.

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AI is now a competitive edge in federal capture and small firms need to adjust fast

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

AI is reshaping the skills contractors need to compete. Small businesses in particular need to adjust how they use these tools inside their proposals. An intentional approach can help a proposal stand out in a crowd. We get practical guidance from Desmond Brown, former Executive Director, Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization, Department of Veterans Affairs.

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As HHS looks to speed up AI in clinical care, the big questions are burden, trust and what comes next.

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The Department of Health and Human Services asked clinicians, patients, developers and health systems how the agency should guide the use of AI in health care delivery. That feedback will shape the Department’s approach to trust, interoperability and responsible adoption. We talk through what happens next with Deputy National Coordinator for Policy at HHS, Mark Atalla.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Monday, March 16, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

As HHS looks to speed up AI in clinical care, the big questions are burden, trust and what comes next
AI is now a competitive edge in federal capture, and small firms need to adjust fast
Escalating conflict abroad is now driving debates over war powers, energy prices and the fate of key funding bills

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

IRS phase-out of paper checks leaves some taxpayers waiting months for refunds

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Hundreds of thousands of taxpayers are facing extended wait times to receive their tax refunds from the IRS. In the past many of them would normally receive a paper check from the agency. But the Trump administration is phasing those out in favor of electronic payments that are faster and less prone to errors. In some cases, taxpayers are now waiting months for their refunds. News Network’s Jory Heckman has more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OPM’s Kupor defends Schedule Policy/Career, as finalization nears

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

After a year of workforce overhauls, the Trump administration is continuing to charge forward with major changes for federal employees. The new Schedule "Policy-slash-Career" classification is on the brink of becoming reality. Revisions to the performance management system will soon take shape. Many of these looming changes come directly from the Office of Personnel Management. At a Federal News Network event last week, reporter Drew Friedman sat down with OPM Director Scott Kupor to hear his take on some of these new policies. Here's an excerpt of that conversation.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Applications are open for a program that helps Navy and Marine Corps families pay for school through grants and interest‑free loans

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

The Navy‑Marine Corps Relief Society has opened its 2026–27 Education Assistance Program, giving spouses and children a chance to apply for scholarships and interest‑free loans that can ease the cost of higher education. The Society supports hundreds of families each year through this program, and demand for this cycle is already building as more households look for help balancing school, service, and rising costs. We get the latest on who qualifies and how the program works from RADM (Retired) Dawn Cutler, Chief Operations Officer for the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A smaller IRS staff could mean a longer wait for returns

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Tax season is underway, but the agency at the center of it is dealing with a shrinking workforce and the loss of tools meant to make filing easier. Those gaps are raising worries about whether the IRS can keep up, especially when it comes to customer service. For more, Federal News Network’s Eric White spoke with former Treasury Department Deputy Chief of Staff Julie Siegel.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Friday, March 13, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

A smaller IRS staff could mean a longer wait for returns
Applications are open for a program that helps Navy and Marine Corps families pay for school through grants and interest‑free loans

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

CMS’s two-pronged approach to crushing fraud, waste, abuse

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

CISA delays cyber incident reporting town halls due to shutdown

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Homeland Security shutdown is delaying key public meetings over forthcoming cyber incident reporting regulations. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency had planned on holding the meetings this month. But much of CISA’s operations have been curtailed by the shutdown. For more, Federal News Network’s Justin Doubleday joins me.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Questions about pay, leave payouts and retirement rules can catch a lot of federal employees off guard

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Some feds are seeing unexpected effects from the new special pay rate for law enforcement and from year‑end retirements that didn’t line up with when agencies process annual leave payouts. New retirees also face a set of early housekeeping steps that can make a big difference in how smoothly their benefits begin. We sort through the practical details with federal retirement expert Tammy Flanagan.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Americans seeking a way out of the Middle East are once again turning to Congressional caseworkers

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

With official guidance thin and evacuation routes uncertain, Americans overseas are flooding Congressional offices for help, recreating the same crisis‑driven scramble we saw after the fall of Kabul. Caseworkers, who were never meant to be emergency responders are again stepping into life‑and‑death situations as they try to fill gaps left by strained federal operations. We’ll dig into what’s happening on the ground with Anne Meeker, deputy director of the Popvox Foundation.

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The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton - - Thursday, March 12, 2026

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on the Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

DPAA’s family updates remain the heart of a mission that still spans the globe in search of answers
As the situation in the Middle East worsens, Americans seeking a way out are once again turning to Congressional caseworkers — and the workload is beginning to look uncomfortably familiar
Questions about pay, leave payouts, and retirement rules can catch a lot of federal employees off guard

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DPAA’s family updates remain the heart of a mission that still spans the globe in search of answers

moconnell@federalnewsradio.com — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

DPAA’s mission is to account for missing service members from World War II through Vietnam, work that depends as much on scientific progress as on the trust they build with families. Their Family Member Updates have become one of the few places where relatives can hear, face‑to‑face, what’s happening in long‑standing cases. Joining us to explain why those touchpoints remain essential are Col. Derek Rankin and Mr. Tim McMahon. Col. Rankin is Chief of Staff at the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. Mr. McMahon is Armed Forces Medical Examiner System DNA Operations director.

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