Author Archive

Sean Michael Newhouse

Sean Michael Newhouse

Staff Reporter

Before joining Government Executive in 2024, Sean Michael Newhouse covered House and Senate committees for four years at CQ Roll Call. There, he covered a wide range of issues but took a particular interest in technology policy. He is a graduate of the University of Dayton.
Before joining Government Executive in 2024, Sean Michael Newhouse covered House and Senate committees for four years at CQ Roll Call. There, he covered a wide range of issues but took a particular interest in technology policy. He is a graduate of the University of Dayton.
Management

Critics worry DOGE’s rush to sell excess federal buildings could hurt agency missions, squander revenue opportunities

While shrinking the federal portfolio has been a bipartisan focus, Democrats at the hearing argued the Department of Government Efficiency’s strategy has been careless.

Workforce

Federal employee appeals board is fully functional again — for now

The removal of Cathy Harris, a Democratic member of the Merit Systems Protection Board, has been both blocked and upheld in court since President Donald Trump tried to fire her in February. The case will likely now go to the Supreme Court.

Pay & Benefits

Many federal police officers don’t receive enhanced pay and retirement benefits, here's how that might change

A new report from the Government Accountability Office highlights issues Congress will need to consider, as lawmakers move to address the disparity.

Management

New legislation aims to increase access to VA sexual trauma care

Congress has paid increased attention to sexual misconduct at the military academies following revelations about mishandled cases at the Coast Guard Academy.

Management

Agencies may have to pay more for late contractor invoices due to Trump payment system overhaul

Stakeholders warned that the late payment issue could prompt companies to avoid doing business with the federal government.

Oversight

Former GOP congressman nominated to independent watchdog role

Anthony D’Esposito, a retired NYPD detective, served on the House Homeland Security, Transportation and Infrastructure and Administration committees and introduced several measures concerning law enforcement issues during his one term. 

Workforce

‘Gangster state’: Justice Department’s reorganization proposal slammed by Democrats

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives could be merged with the Drug Enforcement Administration and DOJ prosecutors focused on tax enforcement and government corruption would be potentially reassigned under the initial plan.

Workforce

More USAID staff set to be cut as the Trump administration tries to move agency into the State Department

The president’s attempts to transfer the U.S. Agency for International Development into the State Department have prompted legal challenges.

Management

FTC commissioners sue to block Trump from firing them

The president has sought to remove several Biden appointees ahead of the end of their terms.

Tech

What the federal workforce could look like with AI government employees

Planning will determine how effectively AI agents are incorporated to streamline agency processes and systems, government technology experts argued.

Updated Management

Bill to fast track approval of Trump and Musk agency cuts advanced by House committee

Presidents have previously had the authority to propose government reorganization plans that Congress must approve or reject.

Management

FEMA set for elimination, Noem says, amid bipartisan House reform proposal

The disaster response and recovery agency has been repeatedly criticized by President Donald Trump.

Management

Regional boards for federal agency coordination officially disbanded

A recent Trump executive order mandated the end of federal executive boards, which have been around since 1961.

Oversight

Democratic oversight leader warns against staff cuts to agency FOIA offices

Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., is requesting details from agencies after high-profile removals by the Trump administration of officials who handle Freedom of Information Act requests.

Management

Trump appeals rulings that blocked his firings of Democrats on independent federal boards

The Trump administration argued that current law limiting the reasons for the president to remove members of independent government boards is unconstitutional.

News

Shutdown averted: Enough Senate Democrats vote with the GOP to pass a government funding bill

Democrats were split on the vote, with some wanting to use it as leverage to fight Department of Government Efficiency cuts.

Workforce

Veteran suicide hotline employees permitted to work remotely after concerns that in-office requirement would hurt service

One Veterans Crisis Line supervisor said the return to office mandate was creating confusion among staff, presented logistical challenges and could hurt recruitment.

News

Government shutdown prospects increase after Schumer says Democrats won’t vote for GOP funding bill

Democrats have argued that the shutdown fight is an opportunity to push back on Elon Musk-backed agency spending and staff cuts.