Ideas
The October (or November) Surprise Neither Trump Nor Biden Wants
We need independent, scrupulously apolitical intelligence analysis in the White House that can compete with our worst instincts.
Policy
Trump’s Border Wall Is Costing Taxpayers Billions More Than Initial Contracts
Federal spending data shows modifications to contracts have increased the price of the border wall by billions, costing about five times more per mile than it did under previous administrations.
Ideas
How to Avoid a Violent Election Season
Beware the 'security dilemma.' Tell Americans that arming up, or posturing to do so against each other, could only make things worse.
Policy
Administration Rushes Out Guidelines for Ending Civil Service Protections
Just two days after the executive order, initial instructions are issued on converting career federal policy-making positions to at-will appointments.
Policy
What Would a Second Trump Term Mean For Foreign Policy?
The nuts and bolts may shift, but the approach is likely to stay the same.
Policy
‘Stunning’ Executive Order Enables Politicized Civil Service
President Trump's new directive allows thousands of federal jobs now filled through competition to be turned into at-will positions.
Threats
Iran Using Voter Data to Spoof Floridians, Warn US Intelligence Leaders
Voting systems remain secure but Russia and Iran have obtained voter data, warn DNI Ratcliffe and FBI Director Wray.
Policy
Milley Speaks Out — and Trump Stays Mum
After a controversial summer, the Joint Chiefs chairman is holding his own with a string of public pronouncements.
Policy
66 Ways to Beat China in AI: Report
The National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence suggests a CTO for the intelligence community; a White House AI council, like the National Space Council; and more.
Ideas
China or Your Soul? Pompeo’s Thunder Falls Flat on Corporate Ears
Companies keep choosing to serve the Chinese market — and that’s likely not good news for the Pentagon.
Policy
US: Russia Has Agreed to Extend New START to Tactical Nukes. Russia: No, We Haven’t
Disagreement leaves fate of last remaining strategic arms pact in doubt.
Policy
Chief of Naval Operations Outlines Future for Drones, Minicarriers
The fleet may need fewer large aircraft carriers but more ships that can carry aircraft.
Ideas
The 20th Year of the Afghanistan War Should Be America’s Last
U.S. national security interests do not depend on the outcome of the peace talks. It’s time to come home.
Policy
Pentagon Leaders Reject Calls for Militarized Election Season
“We support law enforcement,” Army Secretary McCarthy said Tuesday. ”We don’t police American streets.”
Policy
Feds Have Cut Anti-COVID Workforce By More Than 60%
As cases tick up nationwide, administration officials say they have demobilized feds as missions are completed.
Ideas
Harris and Pence Failed the Global Leadership Question
People vying to become, or stay, vice-president should be ready to explain their vision of America’s role in the world.
Policy
All US Troops In Afghanistan To Withdraw By Christmas, Trump Tweets
The bewildering message came just hours after his national security advisor said the United States would draw down to 2,500 by 2021.
Policy
US Charges ISIS ‘Beatles’ In Virginia Court
Kotey and Elsheikh each face 14 charges, all of which carry a maximum penalty of life in prison.
Policy
Esper Plans Fewer Large Carriers, More Subs in a Navy of 500 Ships or More
He says it’s affordable, but key details remain unknown.
Policy