Policy

CIA, ODNI Get Exemption from Trump's Hiring Freeze

Agency leaders are told that if someone would work during a government shutdown, their job can be filled during the freeze.

Ideas

Truth, Trump, and Security: We Need This Independent Commission Into Russian Meddling

It’s not over, yet. We must restore Americans’ trust in us and their government. Here's my plan.

Policy

Defense Department Hiring Freeze Rules Coming Soon

Here are some of the civilian exemptions senators are demanding to Trump's federal freeze-out.

Policy

'We Are Better than this Ban': US Diplomats Plan Official Dissent

White House to State Department: “They should get with the program or they should go.”

Policy

Can Mike Flynn Regain Influence Inside the White House?

Trump’s national security advisor faces challenges ahead in his quest to become part of the president’s decision-making process.

Ideas

We Conservatives Warned You, Trump Will Not Get Better. Here's What You Can Do.

To my friends thinking of serving this administration, either you stand up for your principles and decent behavior, or you go down as a coward or opportunist.

Policy

Trump Wants DHS to Hire 15,000 for Border Security? Not So Fast

The proposed surge would provide assets some agency officials have long requested. It would also enable Trump to fulfill a campaign promise—but it comes with challenges.  

Policy

Trump Has Made an Enemy Out of a Friend

The U.S. is not talking to Mexico, a neighbor, trade partner and trusted ally because of a campaign promise few took seriously.

Policy

'Even a Shining City on a Hill Needs Walls': Senator Tom Cotton

A Republican hawk acclimates to the Trump presidency—and threatens to reconsider the One China policy.

Policy

Trump Orders Halt to ‘Catch and Release,’ But There’s a Catch

Ending the practice of releasing illegal border crossers before they can be deported is easier said than done.

Science & Tech

Border Officers: Real Security is More Complicated Than Building a Wall

Trump’s order notwithstanding, it would take years and new technology to truly close the border.

Policy

Trump’s First Budget Could Be A Unique Mix of Severe Cuts and Increased Spending

New presidents typically unveil a broad budget plan in February, and a more detailed version in the spring.

Policy

One Last Trip With Joe Biden

How the vice president spent a few of his closing days in office.

Ideas

No Turning Back? First Woman Makes Army’s Elite 75th Ranger Regiment, Big Step For Women in Combat

One woman just made it that much harder for anyone to argue women don't belong in America's most elite combat positions.

Business

The Complicated Relationship Between John McCain and Frank Kendall

The Pentagon’s chief weapons buyer for the past five years says he’s lowered the cost of arms, but the watchdog senator never seemed satisfied.

Policy

Can James Mattis Protect Trump From Hubris?

The president-elect and the risks of overconfidence.

Ideas

SPECIAL REPORT: The Military Loves the Obama Doctrine. Can It Survive Trump?

Commanders say they’re already fighting ISIS the right way: “by, with, and through” local forces.