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Project 2025 has quickly become the most consequential—and controversial—blueprint for American governance in recent history. Conceived by the Heritage Foundation and launched with a sprawling 927-page policy manual in April 2023, Project 2025's core goal is to reshape the entire federal government according to staunch conservative priorities. It is, as Heritage Foundation president Kevin Roberts puts it, an effort to “dismantle the administrative state and restore presidential control over the executive branch.”Yet behind those words lies an ambitious checklist for the next presidential administration, presuming a Republican—most likely Donald Trump—takes office. Project 2025 is not just a collection of ideas. It is a detailed playbook, complete with executive orders, departmental reorganization timetables, and a so-called 180-day playbook, designed for rapid execution on “Day One.”At the heart of Project 2025 is an unprecedented push to centralize power in the Oval Office. The plan relies on the controversial unitary executive theory, which argues all executive branch employees should be directly answerable to the president. Kevin Roberts has been explicit: “All federal employees should answer to the president.” According to the project manual, entire agencies such as the Department of Justice, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and the Federal Trade Commission would lose their current independence and fall under direct White House control.One of the most sweeping reforms revolves around personnel. The blueprint resurrects the idea of “Schedule F”—a Trump-era category that would allow the president to reclassify tens of thousands of career civil servants as political appointees, instantly stripping them of protections from partisan firing. The National Federation of Federal Employees warns this would “give the president and his loyalists full control of the executive branch for personal and political gain,” hollowing out civil service checks that have traditionally protected against corruption and patronage.Concrete examples illustrate the scale of the changes envisioned. In foreign policy, the State Department chapter recommends that, before January 20, all leadership be dismissed and replaced with ideologically aligned “acting” appointees who bypass Senate confirmation entirely. Kiron Skinner, the former policy planning chief who wrote this section, has called for removing staff she considers too left-leaning, despite admitting she could not name a single time employees substantively obstructed White House policy.The playbook doesn't stop there. Project 2025 proposes slashing federal workforce numbers through forced attrition, with the White House directing agency heads to lay off or consolidate thousands of positions and eliminate entire offices deemed non-essential. For example, agencies like USAID and the CFPB are earmarked for dissolution, their functions either axed or merged into departments more closely monitored by the executive.Critics from organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union highlight how Project 2025 seeks to erode key civil liberties across a range of issues—abortion, LGBTQ rights, free speech, and the environment. The ACLU describes the initiative as “a roadmap for how to replace the rule of law with right-wing ideals.” Meanwhile, labor unions such as AFGE and NTEU have mounted lawsuits to block the executive orders targeting civil service protections, warning of the dangers of introducing broad political loyalty tests into government hiring and firing.Supporters claim these moves would eliminate bureaucratic inertia and bring swift, accountable leadership to Washington. Yet, legal scholars and former officials have called Project 2025 authoritarian, warning it undermines separation of powers and blurs the lines between partisanship and governance.With the November 2024 presidential election looming, Project 2025's fate comes down to political winds and court rulings. The Heritage Foundation and its partners have prepared a rapid-fire battery of executive orders, ready for signature if they get their candidate in office. Milestones to watch include ongoing legal challenges, Congressional resistance, and, above all, the outcome of the national vote.The scope and ambition of Project 2025 are nothing short of historic, representing both a culmination of decades-long conservative advocacy and an inflection point in debates over the very structure of American democracy. Thank you for tuning in, and be sure to come back next week for more.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.ai

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

Are you approaching retirement and wondering how Medicare fits in with your Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB)? You're not alone! In this episode of All About FERS, John breaks down the step-by-step process of enrolling in Medicare as a federal employee. Tune in and learn: ✅ When to enroll in Medicare and how to avoid costly penalties ✅ How Medicare coordinates with your FEHB coverage ✅ Which parts of Medicare federal retirees typically need (and which they don't) ✅ Common mistakes to avoid ✅ How to review costs and reevaluate during Open Season Don't leave your retirement health coverage to chance; get the straightforward answers you need so you can retire with confidence.

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

Project 2025 began quietly in conservative conference rooms but today stands at the center of a storm over the future of American governance. Born from the Heritage Foundation and assembled by over one hundred right-leaning partners, its 900-page “Mandate for Leadership” lays out not just a governing plan for a future Republican administration, but a wholesale reimagining of the federal government itself. Supporters rally around its stated purpose: as Heritage's Kevin Roberts says, “We're going to impose the will of the people through a reinvigorated executive branch.” Critics, however, warn of what the American Civil Liberties Union calls “a blueprint for replacing the rule of law with right-wing ideals.”One of Project 2025's boldest proposals is placing the entire executive branch—agencies like the Department of Justice, the FBI, even the Federal Communications Commission—under direct presidential control. The aim, described by Roberts as “ending the era of the ‘independent' bureaucracy,” is rooted in the controversial unitary executive theory. The project calls for every senior official in the State Department to be replaced by a president's handpicked loyalists, bypassing the usual Senate confirmation process. Kiron Skinner, who authored the State Department chapter, explained her vision by insisting most career employees are “too left-wing” and must make way for “warriors for the conservative agenda.”The methods are as consequential as the proposals. Project 2025 revives the idea of “Schedule F,” a bureaucratic mechanism that lets a president reclassify tens of thousands of civil service jobs, stripping long-held protections. The National Federation of Federal Employees warns that by transforming apolitical government roles into political appointments, Project 2025 would make it nearly impossible for career staff to resist pressure or political overreach. As one union leader put it, “Without civil service protections, federal employees will be powerless to stop them.”The details ripple into almost every corner of American life. A return-to-office mandate for federal workers, for example, upends years of flexible work arrangements, with federal employees ordered back to their offices, often within tight timelines. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, an agency created after the 2008 financial crisis to oversee banks and safeguard consumers, is marked for elimination. Agencies like USAID, which manages American humanitarian aid abroad, have already faced drastic cuts and layoffs, with numbers reaching into the hundreds of thousands according to Challenger, Gray & Christmas.Labor unions also appear squarely in the project's crosshairs, with proposals to ban public-sector unions, eliminate card check elections, and speed up the process to decertify existing unions. Another core promise is what Project 2025 calls the “restoration of the family.” The authors advocate policies that would restrict abortion, curtail LGBTQ+ rights, and reinforce what they describe as traditional values. According to the project's summary, the intent is to make the family “the centerpiece of American life,” a phrase that has triggered heated debate over what counts as a family in today's country.Some experts warn these moves risk upending critical norms. Legal scholars have voiced concern that Project 2025, if realized, could hurry the erosion of separation of powers, spark legal battles over constitutional rights, and bring about what many label the most extensive centralization of power in the modern era. Detractors have called it a “systemic, ruthless plan to undermine democracy,” while supporters argue it's a necessary correction to what they see as runaway bureaucracy.Looking ahead, the nation waits. The next major turning point arrives this November, when voters will decide not only on a president but, indirectly, on whether Project 2025's policies—already mapped, written, and ready for day one—will be greenlit for action. Whichever side prevails, both the vision and the pushback it's generated signal a lasting confrontation over the future shape of American democracy.Thank you for tuning in, and come back next week for more.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.ai

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

In this essential episode for federal employees, Val dives deep into the biggest retirement planning mistakes and questions he gets asked frequently. sees time From misunderstood TSP strategies to healthcare confusion, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you make smarter decisions for your financial future. Val tackles questions like: ✅ Should I take a TSP loan or hardship withdrawal to pay off credit card debt? ✅ How do FEHB and Medicare work together—while you're still employed and after retirement? ✅ How can I withdraw from my TSP in retirement without triggering a major tax bill? ✅ What are Val’s thoughts on using the TSP Roth or converting traditional funds to Roth? Whether you're five years from retirement or just starting to think about your financial plan, Val breaks it all down with clarity, and experience. Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to secure your financial future as a federal employee. Make sure to subscribe to The Federal Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review! Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel:www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange --- Connect with Val:Phone --- (512) 582-6050Email --- vmajewski@thinkabx.comAmerican Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.comFederal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcastsLinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ --- About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Associated Press spoke with transgender federal employees who say they're being treated unfairly working under new federal policies. The AP's Jennifer King reports.

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

We Can Find Common Ground Even in Washington, D.C. Good Faith's series of Campfire Stories invites listeners to hear how ordinary people are living out extraordinary faith in complex times. In this episode, Daniel, a pastor in Reston, Virginia, reflects on 23 years of ministry near Washington D.C., where politics and faith are in constant conversation. Inspired to bring the community – inside and outside of his church – together through civic discourse, he championed an initiative to create spaces for meal sharing and meaningful dialogue, creating curiosity and seeking unity across political lines. Daniel's story shows how one pastor can change the way we do church to cultivate reconciliation, hope, and community in the most polarized of towns. Send your Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

Project 2025 has emerged as one of the most ambitious and controversial blueprints for American governance in recent memory. Initiated by the Heritage Foundation and backed by a coalition of over 100 conservative organizations, the project's stated mission is to radically restructure the federal government and centralize executive power, promising what supporters call a return to accountability and efficiency. Critics, meanwhile, warn of its sweeping threats to democratic norms, federal checks and balances, and the livelihoods of millions.Unveiled in the form of a 900-page manifesto titled “Mandate for Leadership,” Project 2025 provides granular directions, agency by agency, for an incoming administration determined to overhaul how Washington operates. According to the Heritage Foundation, the “heart of the project” is dismantling what they label as an unaccountable bureaucracy that has “drifted too far from the people's will.” Kevin Roberts, Heritage's president, bluntly declared, “All federal employees should answer to the president.” This vision is animated by an expansive concept known as the unitary executive theory, essentially arguing that the president should have direct control over all executive branch agencies, shedding their current independence.For listeners wondering about concrete changes, consider the plan for the Department of State. Project 2025 advocates for the wholesale removal of agency leadership officials before Inauguration Day, replacing them with individuals hand-picked for strict ideological alignment. Kiron Skinner, who penned the State Department chapter, envisioned a department led exclusively by loyalists, aiming to “remove those not aligned with the president's priorities.” This move is designed not just to hasten the implementation of foreign policy goals, but to prevent bureaucratic resistance—a key grievance among the plan's authors.Just as striking is Project 2025's approach to the federal workforce. Its architects call for the resurrection and expansion of “Schedule F,” a controversial employment status for federal employees. Schedule F would classify hundreds of thousands—if not more—career civil servants as political appointees, stripping them of longstanding job protections. The stated goal is a government “purged of entrenched opposition” so that “key decisions reflect the president's will on day one.” Critics like the National Federation of Federal Employees describe this as a “scheme to purge career professionals,” warning it would turn public administration into a partisan machine vulnerable to corruption.The plan doesn't stop at restructuring government jobs. Project 2025 lays out a 180-day playbook, which includes ready-to-sign executive orders to immediately strip environmental regulations, curb civil rights protections, and overhaul social welfare programs. According to the Center for Progressive Reform, executive actions under this strategy have already targeted the rollback of climate rules, weakened worker safety standards, and eliminated agencies altogether. The swift elimination of the Consumer Financial Protection Board and US Agency for International Development, as documented by Government Executive, was meant to signal a new era of “government efficiency” but resulted in “widespread layoffs and institutional chaos.”Project 2025's policy ambitions also extend to social issues. In its blueprint, it calls for curtailing access to abortion, undoing LGBTQ protections, and limiting federal action on racial equity. The ACLU describes these proposals as “an unprecedented rollback of civil rights and liberties,” comparing their scope to a rewriting of American society's basic fabric.Proponents lay claim to a mandate from voters frustrated by government gridlock and what they see as bureaucratic overreach. Opponents counter that this is not reform but a consolidation of power. Legal experts from across the spectrum worry that such an agenda could collapse the traditional American barrier between politics and administration, risking both the appearance and the reality of authoritarian rule.Several milestones now lie ahead. With ongoing lawsuits from labor unions and scrutiny by watchdog groups, the coming months promise court battles and congressional hearings over Project 2025's legality and impact. Congressional Republicans and administration officials are preparing for rapid implementation, while a coalition of civil rights organizations and some lawmakers are vowing organized resistance.The stakes for American governance have rarely been higher. Whether Project 2025 becomes a historical footnote or a defining blueprint for the future will depend on political will, legal battles, and the choices made in the next critical year.Thanks for tuning in to this week's deep dive. Come back next week for more.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.ai

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

It's no secret that the Trump administration wants to have more control of who federal agencies hire and fire. A new proposed rule from the Office of Personnel Management would provide it a new tool to do so, allowing it to examine the suitability and fitness of an employee any time, not just during the hiring process, as it is currently used. As you can imagine, there are some against the idea. One of them is Joe Spielberger, policy counsel for the Project on Government Oversight. He recently spoke to Federal News Network's Eric White to lay out the organization's argument against the proposal.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

Project 2025 began quietly in conservative circles, with its origins traced to a Spring 2022 gathering of strategists and operatives in Washington. By April 2023, the Heritage Foundation had unveiled the nine-hundred-plus page blueprint, branding it “Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise.” The document reads less like a policy wish list and more like a regime change manual, spelling out a dramatic vision for American governance under a future conservative administration.Kevin Roberts, president of the Heritage Foundation, captured the mood in a statement: “All federal employees should answer to the president.” This encapsulates the project's signature ambition—greater centralization of executive power—rooted in what conservative legal theorists call “unitary executive theory.” According to analysis in The New York Times, this vision would go farther than any post-Nixon Republican platform by making the entire federal bureaucracy directly accountable to the president, erasing agency independence and civil service barriers that have existed for decades.The Project's approach is methodical. Its 180-day playbook details how agency heads should be replaced immediately after inauguration, with thousands of ideologically vetted appointees stepping into critical roles. The controversial Schedule F personnel policy is central: it seeks to reclassify existing civil servants, strip them of job protections, and replace large swathes with loyalists, allowing the new administration essentially unlimited power to hire and fire across government. According to the National Federation of Federal Employees, this would have unprecedented ramifications—apolitical employees, many with deep expertise, would lose their shields from political interference and could be replaced at will, upending regulatory stability.Examples of proposed reforms are as concrete as they are sweeping. The plan advocates abolishing entire agencies, including the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the U.S. Agency for International Development. According to reporting on the current administration's implementation efforts, the Department of Government Efficiency led by Elon Musk has already moved to shut down both of those agencies, simultaneously laying off over a quarter million federal workers and contractors—27 agencies impacted in total. The chaos of rapid layoffs has led to lawsuits: NTEU President Tony Reardon stated, “For over 47 years, the law has made clear that collective bargaining in the federal sector is in the public interest. We have taken the necessary action to file a lawsuit to uphold the law and stop this attack.”On the policy side, criminal justice stands as a stark example. Project 2025 recommends that the Department of Justice intervene in local cases where it believes “rule of law deficiencies” exist, targeting prosecutors who prefer diversion programs or refuse to prosecute low-level offenses. The Brennan Center underscores that this would politicize local law enforcement and undermine prosecutorial discretion, with potentially chilling effects on criminal justice reform.Economic policy proposals include consolidating the Bureau of Economic Analysis, Census Bureau, and Bureau of Labor Statistics into a single agency—a move that critics, like Democracy Forward, warn would “kneecap the data-collection capacities” essential for planning and transparency. Project 2025 also seeks to dismantle the Economic Development Administration, which recently overseen billions in infrastructure investment and the creation of over 200,000 jobs, threatening significant disruption to federal investment in communities.Supporters argue these measures will “destroy the administrative state,” clearing away what they view as unaccountable power. Critics, from the ACLU to the Center for Progressive Reform, counter that the blueprint's methods—centralized appointment, aggressive deregulation, and sweeping personnel changes—threaten democratic checks and balances, civil rights, and the rule of law.As the country approaches pivotal elections, Project 2025 stands at a crossroads between aspiration and action. The next major milestone will arrive with the inauguration—should the conservative movement prevail, all eyes will be on the new administration's first hundred days, as the fate of agencies, public servants, and the structure of American governance hang in the balance.Thanks for tuning in, and come back next week for moreSome great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.ai

Family, this week on Queer News Anna DeShawn continues to bring you the stories that matter most to our community. In politics, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker launches IL Pride Connect, the nation's first statewide LGBTQIA+ resource hub and legal hotline. Meanwhile, the Trump administration plans to ban transgender healthcare for federal workers in 2026 and promotes conversion therapy as an alternative. In Florida, officials erase the Pulse nightclub rainbow crosswalk in the middle of the night. On the culture front, Lil Nas X faces legal and health challenges, Billy Porter steps into beauty with Black Mona Lisa Beauty, and conservatives blame LGBTQ folks over the Cracker Barrel logo change. Let's get into it.  Want to support this podcast?

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

Send us a textJoin Tom Howard for this week's episode of Cannabis Legalization News, where we dive into the significant developments in cannabis policy, including former President Donald Trump's potential plans to reschedule cannabis. We examine the impact of this move on current laws, the tax burdens on license holders, and the future of federal cannabis policy. We also look at how cannabis legalization is evolving through state policies and court rulings. Plus, we touch on the cultural portrayal of cannabis in media, such as a recent South Park episode, and discuss how this could influence public perception and legalization efforts. Stay tuned for updates, guest appearances, and a whole lot more!00:00 Introduction to Cannabis Legalization News00:09 Trump's Potential Shift on Cannabis Policy01:22 Political Landscape and Cannabis Legislation11:28 Cannabis and Second Amendment Rights14:06 Commercial Break and Legal Insights23:57 South Park's Take on Cannabis Rescheduling28:24 Public Consumption Laws in DC30:03 Federal Employees and Marijuana Legalization30:58 Illegal Marijuana Plants in National Parks32:38 Marijuana Raids and Public Reactions34:53 Name That Strain: Alpha Express36:38 Illinois Vape Market and Tax Issues40:39 Legalization and Federal Policy Challenges46:43 Rescheduling and Its Implications54:57 Final Thoughts and ShoutoutsSupport the showGet our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3VEn9vu

In April 2023, a coalition led by the Heritage Foundation released Project 2025, an audacious blueprint proposing to reshape American governance on a scale rarely seen in modern politics. The plan, spanning nearly a thousand pages, lays out a “Mandate for Leadership” that reaches into the fiber of every federal agency and policy domain, promising dramatic change beginning as soon as January 20, 2025, should the architects gain influence.Project 2025 isn't just another policy playbook. According to The Center for Progressive Reform, it aims to radically restructure the executive branch by concentrating unprecedented power in the Oval Office. By relying on a controversial interpretation of the unitary executive theory, the project proposes to eliminate the independence of the Justice Department, the FBI, the Federal Communications Commission, and the Federal Trade Commission, placing them all directly under presidential control. Kevin Roberts of Heritage proclaimed, “All federal employees should answer to the president,” highlighting the drive for loyalty and ideological uniformity at the highest levels.A significant tool in this restructuring is Schedule F, a hiring scheme that allows for unlimited political appointments without civil service protections. Political loyalists would fill key posts overnight, while thousands of career officials could be dismissed or reassigned. The National Federation of Federal Employees warns this could “destroy the Administrative State,” stripping public servants of their protection and empowering the incoming administration to act with little oversight. Experts note this opens the door to corruption and abuse of power on a level unseen since the patronage systems of the 19th century.Concrete proposals go beyond staffing. Project 2025 calls for dismantling the Consumer Financial Protection Board and the United States Agency for International Development, as seen in recent attempts to eliminate these agencies under the current administration, which has already fired hundreds of thousands of workers. The American Federation of Government Employees and National Treasury Employees Union have filed lawsuits, arguing, “For over 47 years, the law has made clear that collective bargaining in the federal sector is in the public interest. We have taken the necessary action to file a lawsuit to uphold the law and stop this attack.” Meanwhile, chaotic return-to-office mandates and office closures serve a dual purpose: savings, and making remote work, long a civil service perk, much harder.Education policies advocated by Project 2025 are even more sweeping. Brookings experts describe proposals to shutter the Department of Education, eliminate Head Start and Title I funding, privatize the federal student loan program, and rescind protections for LGBTQ+ students. The report's authors, many of whom served in the first Trump administration, envision a landscape where federal enforcement of civil rights is severely curtailed. “This is a great group, and they're going to lay the groundwork and detail plans for exactly what our movement will do,” said former President Trump in 2022, underscoring the project's ambition and alignment with his worldview.Civil liberties groups, including the ACLU, describe Project 2025 as a “blueprint for how to replace the rule of law with right-wing ideals.” Their analysis argues that, from abortion and immigration to free speech and racial justice, recommended actions would erode democratic norms and threaten fundamental rights.As the Heritage Foundation and its allies press forward, the next few months loom large. Will Congress and the courts intervene in time to temper the most sweeping proposals? Could a dramatic overhaul of the federal government become reality on “Day One”? Experts from both ends of the political spectrum agree that, if enacted, Project 2025 would alter the balance of power in Washington – possibly for generations.Thank you for tuning in. Join us next week for a deeper look at how these changes could affect American lives, and what milestones to watch as this bold project unfolds.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.ai

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

Project 2025 has become one of the most ambitious—and controversial—proposals to reshape American governance in modern times. Unveiled by the Heritage Foundation and backed by a coalition of over 100 conservative groups, this nearly thousand-page blueprint envisions a sweeping overhaul of the federal government if a Republican president takes office in January 2025. Its stated mission is nothing short of a root-and-branch restructuring: dismantle the so-called “administrative state,” reassert presidential control, and roll back everything from agency independence to civil service protections.As Heritage Foundation president Kevin Roberts put it, “all federal employees should answer to the president.” At Project 2025's core lies an aggressive reading of the “unitary executive” theory, which claims the president should exercise direct oversight of the entire executive branch. The project calls for the elimination of the independence of agencies like the Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Federal Trade Commission, and the Federal Communications Commission. This would mean every official answers directly to the Oval Office, erasing barriers that, until now, protected agencies from political interference.Concrete examples of this ambition spill across the plan's 30 dense chapters. According to the policy document “Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise,” Project 2025 proposes the immediate dismissal of all State Department leadership and their replacement by ideologically vetted appointees. Kiron Skinner, who led the chapter on the State Department, wrote that career officials should be replaced by those more loyal to the president's agenda—noting she considered most State staff as “too left-wing.”The implications run deep for the federal workforce. Project 2025 reinvigorates the controversial “Schedule F” system, which would allow the mass reclassification of up to a million civil service positions to at-will federal jobs. As the National Federation of Federal Employees explains, everyone in these positions could be fired and replaced at the president's discretion. This would gut long-standing protections intended to shield government workers from political retribution or interference, paving the way for a loyalist bureaucracy on “Day One.”Some of the earliest developments since the 2024 election have been dramatic. The new administration, working with an Elon Musk–led Department of Government Efficiency, has already attempted to dismantle entire agencies like the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the U.S. Agency for International Development. According to Politico, Musk's team eliminated the CFPB and USAID, fired tens of thousands of federal workers, and rapidly imposed return-to-office mandates intended to shrink the government's physical footprint. The White House described the effort as making government “more efficient and effective,” with President Trump issuing an executive order for agencies to hire only one new worker for every four who leave.Critics, including the American Civil Liberties Union, warn that Project 2025 poses a grave threat to civil liberties and democratic norms. The ACLU highlights that the blueprint would roll back protections for LGBTQ rights, reproductive rights, and racial equity, while rolling out aggressive new policies on immigration, policing, and free speech. The Center for Progressive Reform is tracking these moves, reporting devastating consequences upon workers, the environment, and the rights of millions as the changes ripple through every U.S. state and territory.Supporters say Project 2025 is necessary to rid Washington of bias, inefficiency, and “woke” influence. Critics counter that it is, in the words of one legal expert for The Atlantic, “an attempt to intellectually retrofit a rationale for Trumpism.” They note that many proposals may require approval from Congress or survive Supreme Court scrutiny, but much of the plan is designed to work through executive action alone.As the country heads toward the 2026 congressional midterms, all eyes are on milestones set by the Project 2025 playbook. Will the courts uphold the expanded executive powers? Can civil service protections be permanently dismantled? And to what extent will Congress shield or resist the transformation underway? More executive orders, agency reshuffles, and legal showdowns are on the horizon, ensuring the fate of Project 2025 will remain a defining issue for the nation.Thanks for tuning in—come back next week for more.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.ai

What age can I start collecting Social Security retirement benefits? What is my full retirement age, and how does it change if I delay or file early? - Jerry    https://zurl.co/RF4zt

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

Federal employees traveling for business will not see an increase in the rates the government will pay for hotels, meals and incidentals in fiscal 2026. The General Services Administration says the per diem rates for the continental United States will stay the same for next fiscal year. GSA says the decision not to increase the rates reflects the government's commitment to being a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars, ensuring that federal funds are utilized appropriately, cost-effectively and for core mission-related activities. The standard rate applies to most of CONUS, which for lodging is $110 dollars. There are 296 non-standard areas with individual rates that are higher than the standard rate. The meals and incidental rates range from $59 to $92.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Agencies are facing tons of changing expectations from the Office of Personnel Management this year. In the last few weeks alone, OPM has told agencies how to think differently about awarding employees for good work, as well as how to implement recent changes to the federal probationary period. To help make sense of it all Federal News Network's Drew Friedman caught up with the Partnership for Public Services, Vice President of Government Affairs, Jenny Mattingly.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the biggest threat to your financial plan isn't the stock market or taxes, but being underinsured? In this episode, Tommy and John sit down with Broc Buckles, co-founder of BC Brokerage, to talk about why insurance is a critical cornerstone of any financial strategy. Listen in to learn how to avoid overpaying, why working with a broker can uncover better coverage and rates than sticking with a single provider, and why the right insurance coverage could save you thousands while giving you peace of mind. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Broc Buckles: LinkedIn BC Brokerage Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn:  LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

Retirement shouldn't be a question mark - it should be a plan. In episode 144 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val explains a recent situation he came across in helping a federal employee and goes on to explain how federal employees can create guaranteed lifetime income streams and build a rock-solid financial foundation for retirement. He breaks down:✅ What "guaranteed income" really means—and why it matters✅ Smart strategies within your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)✅ How to balance growth and safety as you near retirement✅ The role annuities can play in creating predictable income✅ Tips to build up your TSP and convert savings into retirement paychecks Federal benefits are powerful—but only if you know how to use them. Don’t leave your retirement to chance. Learn how to turn your federal career into a future of financial confidence. Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to secure your financial future as a federal employee. Make sure to subscribe to The Federal Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review! Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel:www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange --- Connect with Val:Phone --- (512) 582-6050Email --- vmajewski@thinkabx.comAmerican Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.comFederal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcastsLinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ --- About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You don't need to work longer; you just need a better plan. Schedule a peace of mind visit for your retirement planning with this link: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/dzamatalk-complimentary-15-min-phone-call“The Big Beautiful Bill is putting more money in your pocket—through bigger deductions, senior benefits, and opportunities to turn tax savings into retirement freedom.”

It's a busy time for federal retirements. From rising health care costs to the surge in retirement applications, there's a lot to keep track of. And, OPM has launched a new online retirement system at the same time. Here to explain what makes a retirement case “clean,” how to avoid common delays, and what federal employees should be thinking about before they hit submit 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.

As federal agencies shrink and restructure, former civil servants are stepping up to preserve what's being lost. A new oral history project from the Volcker Alliance and the Organization of American Historians captures the voices of displaced federal employees—offering an unfiltered look at public service, policy, and the personal toll of government downsizing. Here with more is the project director for the Federal Employees and Contractors Oral History project, Dr. Jason Chernesky.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

Federal employees' COVID-19 vaccination status will soon no longer appear on their personnel documents. The Trump administration is directing agencies to scrub vaccination information from federal HR files. That includes erasing any instances of employees not complying with vaccine mandates, or requesting exemptions from any mandates. The Office of Personnel Management says no information related to vaccines can be used in decisions on hiring, promotions, discipline or terminations. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

In episode 143, Val breaks down the key points of the updated retirement process for Federal Employees, including the OPM/Online retirement application process and various FEGLI options available during this process. Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to secure your financial future as a federal employee. Make sure to subscribe to The Federal Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review! Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel:www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange --- Connect with Val:Phone --- (512) 582-6050Email --- vmajewski@thinkabx.comAmerican Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.comFederal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcastsLinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ --- About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

When planning your retirement from the federal government, small mistakes can lead to BIG problems, like delays, reduced pensions, or even being told you don't have enough service time to retire!

What if your federal pension is small and you're not relying on it—should you still elect survivor benefits? In this episode, John and Tommy respond to a listener's detailed YouTube question about pensions, TSP, and survivor benefits when service time is short and other retirement savings are strong. They break down the real value of keeping survivor benefits, even when your pension isn't your main income stream. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn:  LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn Federal Employees - DO NOT Decline Survivor Benefits! 

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

Today's host was Michael Wear, Founder, President and CEO of the Center for Christianity and Public Life.  Thanks for listening to The Morning Five! Please subscribe to and rate The Morning Five on your favorite podcast platform. Learn more about the work of the Center for Christianity and Public Life at www.ccpubliclife.org. Scripture: Hebrews 12 Top Headlines: 1) Trump Administration Issues New Guidelines for Federal Employees on Religious Expression 2) New Study Puts Value of Direct Cash Payments in Doubt 3) Will U.S.-Canada Reach Trade Agreement? Today's host was Michael Wear, Founder, President, and CEO of the Center for Christianity and Public Life.   Join the conversation and follow us at: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@michaelwear⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, @ccpubliclife Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MichaelRWear⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, @ccpubliclife and check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@tsfnetwork⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Music by: King Sis #politics #faith #prayer #religiousfreedom #TrumpAdmin #Canada #Trade #Tariffs #cashpayments #publicpolicy #poverty Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Watch this Live: Click Here Think retirement is decades away? Think again. Mel Stubbs breaks down the 10 retirement decisions that can make or break your future — and why federal employees can't afford to ignore them.

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

Free Copy of My Book: Building Wealth In the TSP: Your Road Map To Financial Freedom as A Federal Employee: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/free-tsp-e-book FREE WEBINAR: "The 7 Biggest FERS Retirement Mistakes": https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/7biggestmistakeswebinar Want to schedule a consultation? Click here: https://hawsfederaladvisors.com/work-with-us/ Submit a question here: https://app.hawsfederaladvisors.com/question-submission I am a practicing financial planner, but I'm not your financial planner. Please consult with your own tax, legal and financial advisors for personalized advice.

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin:  First—Thousands of Ukrainians take to the streets in Kyiv to protest a controversial new law that guts the country's top two anti-corruption agencies. They are the first major anti-government demonstrations to hit Ukraine since Russia's invasion more than three years ago. Later in the show—U.S.-China relations take another escalatory turn, as Beijing imposes exit bans on a U.S. government employee and a corporate executive, barring them from leaving the country. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President's Daily Brief by visiting PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of The President's Daily Brief. YouTube: youtube.com/@presidentsdailybrief Birch Gold: Text PDB to 989898 and get your free info kit on gold TriTails Premium Beef: Visit ⁠https://trybeef.com/pdb⁠ & get $10 off 20 Lbs Ground Beef Special Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of American Potential, host David From is joined by Jeremiah Mosteller, policy director at Americans for Prosperity, for the latest installment in the Big Ideas for Smaller Government series. The focus: the Office of Personnel Management (OPM)—the federal government's HR department—and a surprising proposal that could save $237 billion without touching current employee benefits. From the absurd reality of federal retirement files being processed in a limestone mine in Pennsylvania, to relocation costs nearing $170,000 per employee, the episode exposes waste and inefficiencies taxpayers rarely hear about. But there's good news: Jeremiah shares how shifting new federal employees to a modern, portable retirement plan—like a 401(k)—already the gold standard in the private sector—could generate massive long-term savings. And it wouldn't change anything for current employees. Listen to hear how smart reforms and private-sector solutions are helping DogE (the initiative to cut $2 trillion in wasteful federal spending) chip away at bureaucratic bloat—and how you can submit your own savings ideas at DogeIdea.com.