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"So what if it's hard? So what if it takes time? So what if I've stumbled before? I will keep going." Lt. Col. (Dr) Dharamdatt Goel (Retd.) is a Motivational Speaker and Corporate Trainer, with a Doctorate in Psychology, and a Postgraduate Degree in Personnel Management. In 2002, he lost a leg below the knee while on an operation at the Line of Control. However, he was undeterred as he embraced many adventure sports, and made it to the Limca Book of Records as the first Indian to paraglide with an artificial leg. He's also the author of the bestsellers 'When People Doubted My Ability to Walk, I Decided to Fly,' and 'The Magic of So What'.
It's day two of the federal shutdown, and with the Senate on leave, there won't be any sort of appropriations deal until Friday at the earliest — though many have doubts about that possibility. As federal agencies adjust to the new normal with hundreds of thousands of federal employees furloughed and the White House threatening more layoffs targeting those who've been sent home, FedScoop took the time to compile a near-complete look at how agency IT organizations are affected. An analysis of the nearly two dozen civilian Chief Financial Officer Act agencies found that some agencies explicitly outlined plans to scale back IT operations amid the shutdown, while others deemed several IT staff members essential for managing technology and cybersecurity infrastructure. For instance, at the Department of Commerce's Office of the CIO, just one individual is tasked with taking responsibility for shutdown tasks and assurance that the office will continue to work on critical IT functions. If the lapse in funding continues for an extended period, there is also the potential for staff to be recalled on an intermittent or full-time basis for cybersecurity and maintenance work, and limited staff may be called for administrative functions. While at the Labor Department, the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management has selected “a minimal IT staff” within the OCIO to oversee tech operations. Those employees are now tasked with managing Labor's technology services, applications and website, in addition to having other IT security responsibilities that support the agency's excepted and exempt staff. A nonprofit legal group is suing a handful of federal agencies, calling on the federal bodies to release documents related to the use of artificial intelligence to carry out the Trump administration's “deregulation agenda.” The lawsuit, filed by Democracy Forward on Wednesday, asks a court to require the General Services Administration, Office of Personnel Management, Office of Management and Budget and the Department of Housing and Urban Development to comply with public records laws amid concerns over how AI is being used to “weaken” existing federal regulations. Democracy Forward said it reviewed both public records and documents obtained through FOIA requests and found GSA plays a “central role” in the White House's efforts to overhaul regulations. The nonprofit cited an apparent email trail, in which a GSA-affiliated email informs other agencies of “significant progress” in reviewing its internal and external policies to ensure consistency with President Donald Trump's directives. The suit further pointed to reports of an AI tool called SweetREX developed by an affiliate of the Department of Government Efficiency. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.
Agencies are being allowed to continue any work related to reductions in force, even during a government shutdown. That's according to guidance the Office of Personnel Management published over the weekend. OPM's update comes as the Trump administration is encouraging agencies to conduct even more RIFs. Here with more on this is 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.
Agencies are being told to change the way they describe positions when promoting job openings. The Office of Personnel Management wants federal job titles to be descriptive, organizational or functional in nature, or in other words, OPM says cut the government jargon. Here with the latest is 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.
The Office of Personnel Management is rolling out Microsoft Copilot and OpenAI's ChatGPT to its workforce, following a similar move by the Department of Health and Human Services. According to internal emails obtained by FedScoop, OPM Director Scott Kupor told workers that Microsoft 365's Copilot Chat became available last Monday and that ChatGPT-5 access would be available “over the next few days” to all workers. Kupor said the move “is part of our broader effort to equip you with AI tools that help you work faster, think bigger, and collaborate better,” calling for OPM to “lead the way in using AI thoughtfully and effectively — starting now.” OPM spokeswoman McLaurine Pinover confirmed one of the emails sent by Kupor about access to the two tools. She said both offerings were the result of deals the General Services Administration has inked with companies to provide services at deeply discounted rates as part of its OneGov initiative. OPM was also able to add Copilot to the agency's existing subscription at no cost with Microsoft's new GSA contract in place. Similar to the HHS rollout, Kupor cautioned workers using the tools to still use their best judgment and previewed training from the Office of the Chief Information Officer. Federal workers will soon have the ability to use Meta's Llama artificial intelligence models at no cost for the agency under a new deal with the General Services Administration. GSA announced Monday it reached a deal with Meta, which will offer its open-source AI models and tools to federal agencies for free. The agency emphasized that the open-source nature of the Llama models allows agencies to “retain full control over data processing and storage.” Meta's free offer to the government follows deals from a number of other technology companies selling their products, namely AI products, to agencies for a significantly cheaper price. The Trump administration has repeatedly encouraged agencies to adopt emerging tech to streamline workflows. Mark Zuckerberg, co-founder and CEO of Meta, said the company wants to ensure “all Americans see the benefit of AI through better, more efficient public services.”
University of Wisconsin system faculty and staff unions go to a Board of Regents meeting to demand meet and confer and formal recognition, OPEIU Local 39 wins a union recognition vote at Pathfinders social services in Milwaukee, a four-day strike by Teamsters Local 320 at the University of Minnesota system ends in an agreement with the help of solidarity from IATSE, a UW School or Workers webinar series looks at the role of immigrant labor, a meeting of the Dane County Board of Supervisors is packed with AFSCME members protesting a sudden proposed rise in health care costs and the vote goes the workers; way, the Bureau of Labor Statistics has to revise employment statistics from earlier this year downward, and a federal judge ruled in a union-filed lawsuit says that the federal Office of Personnel Management broke the law when firing thousands of probationary employees.
It's been weeks since the Office of Personnel Management announced that it would not be conducting the Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey this year in place of the 2025 FEVS. OPM says agencies can still choose to conduct their own surveys, but many have already said they don't plan to here to discuss the impacts of the absence of FEVS and what the future might hold for employee surveys is Federal News Network's Drew FriedmanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The Department of Homeland Security has decreed that we will all learn what chain refoulement is … by watching them try to rendition wave after wave of immigrants. Andrew and Liz will explain how that's totally illegal. Plus, Newsmax is suing Fox News, again. Links: Newsmax v. Fox [Wisconsin Docket] https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/71323347/newsmax-broadcasting-llc-v-fox-corporation Newsmax v. Fox [Florida Docket] https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/71258079/newsmax-broadcasting-llc-v-fox-corporation Biden v. Byrne https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/67990012/robert-hunter-biden-v-patrick-m-byrne Comey v. DOJ https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/71348216/comey-v-united-states-department-of-justice American Federation Of Government Employees, AFL-CIO v. United States Office of Personnel Management https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/69655364/american-federation-of-government-employees-afl-cio-v-united-states/ D.A. v. Noem https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/71323714/da-v-noem Show Links: https://www.lawandchaospod.com/ BlueSky: @LawAndChaosPod Threads: @LawAndChaosPod Twitter: @LawAndChaosPod
The Office of Personnel Management is trying to nix the idea that everybody gets an A in the Senior Executive Service agencies will soon have to limit how many executives can earn top marks on their performance evaluations. A new Final Rule has paved the way for using a forced distribution system to review SES members. Here with more details is 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.
The Office of Personnel Management has put an official end to the 150 year old rule of three in federal hiring. Instead, it's telling agencies to begin implementing a technique called the Rule of many it's one of several changes OPM is making to federal recruitment this year, and here to break it all down for us is 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.
Federal employees, on average, are waiting longer to see their retirement applications processed. New data from the Office of Personnel Management for August shows it takes an average of 70 days to process a claim from a retiring fed. But if retirement claims are coming to OPM in less than 60 days, those cases take, on average, 45 days to complete. At the same time, OPM received more than 9,400 retirement claims last month. OPM's backlog of retirement claims dropped by 2,000 to 24,300. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Greg Hogan is out as the chief information officer of the Office of Personnel Management after roughly seven-and-a-half months on the job. Hogan was installed at the human capital agency on the first day of President Donald Trump's second administration, replacing Melvin Brown II after roughly a week on the job. According to an OPM spokeswoman, Hogan departed the agency earlier this week and Perryn Ashmore, who is currently assistant director of enterprise learning at the agency, is currently serving as CIO in an acting capacity. Although not much was shared by the agency about Hogan's background, a legal filing in a challenge brought by current and former federal employees over Department of Government Efficiency access to OPM data provided some details. According to that document, Hogan was the vice president of infrastructure at comma.ai — a self-driving car software company — before joining the Trump administration. He also told the court he had 20 years of experience in private sector IT and a computer engineering degree. Stephen Ehikian, the deputy administrator of the General Services Administration, has left the agency to take over as chief executive officer at the enterprise AI application software company C3 AI. Ehikian told GSA staff Tuesday in an email obtained by FedScoop that he would “transition out” of the agency's deputy administrator role, but remain an adviser to the leadership team during the transition process. On Wednesday, C3 AI announced Ehikian's hiring as CEO. He said in a statement he is “honored” to join the company “at such a pivotal time in the AI era.” He served as the GSA's acting head for the first half of this year until July, when President Donald Trump tapped State Department leader Michael Rigas for the role and Ehikian moved into the deputy spot. “I want to thank Stephen Ehikian for his service and wish him well,” Rigas said in a statement shared by GSA. Edward Forst, a longtime financial services executive, was nominated by Trump in July to serve as the next administrator of the GSA. A nomination hearing date has not been scheduled, according to congressional records. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.
The United States Office of Personnel Management recently issued a memo to all federal department and agency heads about religious freedom. According to the memo titled "Protecting Religious Expression in the Federal Workplace," federal employees are allowed to display religious items at work and engage in prayer during non-duty hours. They also can discuss their religious ... The post Religious Freedom for Government Workers appeared first on Unconventional Business Network.
A year after launching the Postal Service Health Benefits Program, the Office of Personnel Management is facing critical resource shortfalls that threaten its ability to sustain operations. An Inspector General audit warns that without urgent staffing and funding fixes, OPM may struggle to process enrollments, manage benefits, and maintain service for more than 800,000 postal employees and retirees during the 2025 open season. Here to explain what's at stake is the Group Chief, Community-Rated Audits Group, OPM Office of the Inspector General ,Matthew Knupp.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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.
The Office of Personnel Management is taking on some big changes this year, like trying to modernize the Federal Retirement System, improve health insurance programs for federal employees, and overhaul the hiring process. But as OPM undertakes those major efforts, the agency is on track to lose 1000 employees, a third of its total workforce by the end of the year. As part of our Workforce Reimagined event Federal News Network's Drew Friedman, got more from OPM Director Scott Kupor. Here's a segment of their conversation.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The Trump White House has tapped Tesla board member and Airbnb cofounder Joe Gebbia to take the lead on its initiative to redesign the federal government's digital footprint. Gebbia announced that he was appointed as chief design officer in a Saturday post to X, formerly known as Twitter. That role was established by President Donald Trump via executive order last week along with a new National Design Studio and an initiative to improve digital and physical spaces called “America By Design.” Gebbia said in his X post that his directive “is to update today's government services to be as satisfying to use as the Apple Store: beautifully designed, great user experience, run on modern software.” Gebbia thanked Trump for supporting the new initiative and asked people interested in joining the studio to reach out with a link to their work. Prior to his appointment as the design chief, Gebbia also worked with DOGE to modernize the Office of Personnel Management's mostly paper-based retirement processing. Sen. Ron Wyden on Monday urged Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts to seek an independent review of federal court cybersecurity following the latest major hack, accusing the judiciary of “incompetence” and “covering up” its “negligence” over digital defenses. Wyden, D-Ore., wrote his letter in response to news this month that hackers had reportedly breached and stolen sealed case data from federal district courts dating back to at least July, exploiting vulnerabilities left unfixed for five years. Alleged Russian hackers were behind both the attack and another past major intrusion, and may have lurked in the systems for years. Wyden wrote in his letter: “The courts have been entrusted with some of our nation's most confidential and sensitive information, including national security documents that could reveal sources and methods to our adversaries, and sealed criminal charging and investigative documents that could enable suspects to flee from justice or target witnesses. Yet, you continue to refuse to require the federal courts to meet mandatory cybersecurity requirements and allow them to routinely ignore basic cybersecurity best practices.” That, Wyden said, means someone from the outside must conduct a review, naming the National Academy of Sciences as the organization Roberts should choose. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.
The top lawmakers on a key House cybersecurity panel are hoping to remove a barrier to entry for cyber jobs in the federal government. Introduced last week, the Cybersecurity Hiring Modernization Act from Reps. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., and Shontel Brown, D-Ohio, would prioritize skills-based hiring over educational requirements for cyber jobs at federal agencies. Mace and Brown — the chair and ranking member of the House Oversight Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation Subcommittee, respectively — said the legislation would ensure the federal government has access to a “broader pool of qualified applicants” as the country faces “urgent cybersecurity challenges.” Mace said in a press release Thursday: “As cyber threats against our government continue to grow, we need to make sure our federal agencies hire the most qualified candidates, not just those with traditional degrees. This bill cuts red tape, opens doors to skilled Americans without a four-year diploma but with the expertise to get the job done, and strengthens our nation's cybersecurity workforce.” Brown said in a statement that expanding the cyber workforce is “imperative” to “meet our nation's growing need for safe and secure systems.” The bill aims to “remove outdated hiring policies, expand workforce opportunities to a wider pool of talented applicants, and help agencies hire the staff that they need,” she added. The bill calls on the Office of Personnel Management to annually publish any education-related changes that are made to minimum qualification requirements for federal cyber roles. OPM would also be charged with aggregating data on educational backgrounds of new hires for those cyber positions. Texas-based defense startup Saronic Technologies will produce multiple batches of autonomous maritime drones for the U.S. Navy by mid-2031 under an other transaction agreement (OTA) worth more than $392 million, according to officials and public contracting documents viewed by DefenseScoop. Details are sparse regarding the specific features, types and quantities of unmanned vessels Saronic will deliver — but they'll likely mark a major component of the Navy's AI-enabled, hybrid fleet that's being designed to counter security threats in and around the Pacific. OTA contract vehicles offer Defense Department buyers more flexibility and speed than traditional Federal Acquisition Regulation-based acquisitions. They're a key element in the Navy's broader plan to modernize and incentivize accelerated technology adoption to prepare for future fights. According to records posted on the Federal Procurement Data System, Naval Sea Systems Command and Saronic Technologies formalized this $392 million OTA — which has a completion date of May 30, 2031 — on May 16. Two months later, in July, NAVSEA made an award to Saronic worth nearly $197 million under the agreement, or about half of the total award ceiling. It's unclear if more awards have been made to date.
Administrative Law: May a district court enjoin the Office of Personnel Management from ordering six agencies to fire probationary employees en masse? - Argued: Tue, 19 Aug 2025 19:42:6 EDT
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.
A new memo from the Office of Personnel Management claims to protect religious expression in the federal workplace, but it explicitly permits proselytizing, allowing federal employees to attempt to convert coworkers. While it insists these efforts "must not be harassing," the practical reality of defining and reporting harassment—especially when your boss is involved—is a bureaucratic nightmare. This performative stance suggests a solution to a non-existent problem, as religious speech was already permitted. The memo's real aim appears to be to champion specific religious overreach, carving out special protections for "religious beliefs" while conveniently ignoring other deeply held "social, political, or economic philosophies." It's a transparent, and frankly, unnecessary move for a progressive, secular audience.News Source:New memo lets government workers push Christianity on colleagues even if they're the bossBy Hemant Mehta for The Friendly AtheistJuly 28, 2025
A federal appeals court is giving the Department of Government Efficiency access to sensitive data at several agencies. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit overturned a lower court's ruling that barred DOGE from accessing records at the Treasury Department … the Education Department … and the Office of Personnel Management. Appeals court judges ruling in favor of DOGE cited a recent Supreme Court ruling … that allowed DOGE officials access to Social Security Administration data on millions of Americans. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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.
Registration is now open for senior executives who want to take a leadership development training program. The Office of Personnel Management is encouraging federal employees to sign up after launching the new training series this week. The OPM program comes alongside other big changes for the Senior Executive Service this year, and here with more details is 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.
Federal employees submitting their retirement paperwork may have to wait longer to get their claims processed. The Office of Personnel Management reported that during July, it took the agency 59 days, on average, to process a federal employee's retirement package from start to finish. That's two weeks longer, on average, than it took OPM to work through cases in June. Another 8,300 federal employees sent their retirement paperwork to OPM last month. All combined, that adds up to nearly 37,000 feds who have submitted a retirement claim since April. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The nearly brand new health insurance program for postal workers is at risk of an operational failure. A new inspector general report says recent staffing and funding reductions at the Office of Personnel Management are creating some challenges, and if those problems aren't addressed soon, the IG says it will cause problems during the upcoming Open Season. 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.
It's Wednesday, July 30th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Ugandan Muslims kill relative convert to Christianity Muslims in Uganda killed a relative of theirs earlier this month after he had converted to Christianity. Kasajja Abdul Maliki accepted Christ in April. The pastor who shared the Gospel with him told Morning Star News, “I took him to my house and discipled him in Christian teachings for a week, and thereafter he returned back to his home.” Since then, Maliki stopped attending prayers at the mosque. He would study the Bible and pray in his home instead. His relatives broke into his house on July 18. They found him praying for their salvation. Some of them became so angry, they began beating him and even stabbed him. Neighbors tried to save Maliki, but he died on the way to a nearby clinic. Revelation 12:11 says, “They overcame [the Devil] by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.” Argentinian president recognizes non-Catholic religious groups Evangelical Focus reports that Argentina now recognizes Evangelical churches. President Javier Milei signed a measure to officially recognize non-Catholic religious groups as “religious legal entities.” Most people in Argentina still identify as Catholic, but the number of Evangelicals has grown in recent years. The Christian Alliance of Evangelical Churches of the Republic of Argentina commented on the new measure. It said, “This was achieved thanks to the efforts, prayers, and perseverance of Christians who have worked with respect, patience, and faith to see this progress for over 30 years.” Florida has greatest religious liberty; West Virginia the worst In the United States, First Liberty Institute released their 2025 Religious Liberty in the States report. The report evaluates states based on 47 religious liberty safeguards. The top state this year was Florida with a score of 74.6%. The worst state was West Virginia with a score of 19.6%. Most states fell in the 25%-50% range. Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis enthusiastically affirmed religious liberty. DeSANTIS: “Today, Florida has earned the number one ranking amongst all 50 states for protecting religious liberty. If you go back to the founding of our country, religious liberty was basically the first freedom that the Founding Fathers sought to protect. “Religious freedom was part of the reason people even settled in the American colonies to begin with. This is something that is central to the American experiment and central to our way of life. But it is something that has really been under assault in recent years.” U.S. federal employees allowed to talk about Christian faith Federal employees can now talk about their faith at work. The U.S. Office of Personnel Management sent out a memo on Monday about protecting religious expression in the federal workplace. Workers are allowed to display Bibles and crosses, talk to other employees about their faith, and form prayer groups. The memo states, “The Federal workforce should be a welcoming place for Federal employees who practice a religious faith. Allowing religious discrimination in the Federal workplace violates the law. It also threatens to adversely impact recruitment and retention of highly-qualified employees of faith.” Planned Parenthood closes 33 abortion mills nationally Life News reports that Planned Parenthood has closed 33 abortion mills so far this year. This includes one of its locations in the Houston area of Texas which was known as the largest abortion mill in the Western Hemisphere. Shawn Carney with 40 Days for Life said, “The defunding of Planned Parenthood and the closure of abortion centers from coast to coast means that July 2025 will go down as the WORST month in Planned Parenthood's history… for now! Toppling this abortion Goliath proves that, with God, all things truly are possible.” Trust in church increases And finally, people are putting more trust in the church, according to a survey from Gallup. Thirty-six percent of U.S. adults have significant confidence in the church. That's up from 31% in 2022. However, it's down from 66% in 1973 when Gallup first started tracking the percentage. The last year that a majority of Americans had confidence in the church was 2009. Currently, the only institutions that a majority of Americans trust are small business, the military, and science. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, July 30th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.
It's Wednesday, July 23rd, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus Muslims kill Syrian pastor and 20 members of family Syrian Muslims took the life of a pastor and 20 members of his family over the weekend. Khalid Mezher was the pastor of the Good Shepherd Evangelical Church in southern Syria. He and his family converted to Christianity years ago out of a religious group in the area known as the Druze. Violence between Druze militias and fighters from the Bedouin tribes, which are mostly Muslim, has taken the lives of hundreds of people over the last week. Evangelical leader Johnnie Moore wrote on X, “Pastor Khalid died for a faith that many Christians hardly live. They are now martyrs who gave their entire lives, in difficult circumstances, to share the love of Jesus with their neighbors and beloved Syria.” In Matthew 16:25, Jesus said, “For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.” Puerto Rico protects kids from transsexual drugs and surgeries Puerto Rico is protecting children from transsexual drugs and surgeries. Last Wednesday, Republican Governor Jenniffer González Colón signed the Law for the Protection of the Health and Well-being of Minors in Puerto Rico. Harming children with such transsexual procedures is punishable by 15 years in prison. Puerto Rico joins nearly 30 states in America with similar bans. Japan to invest $550 billion into America President Donald Trump secured a great deal with Japan, reports The Epoch Times. On Truth Social, President Trump announced, “We just completed a massive deal with Japan, perhaps the largest deal ever made. Japan will invest, at my direction, $550 billion into the United States, which will receive 90% of the profits. “This deal will create hundreds of thousands of jobs. There has never been anything like it. Perhaps most importantly, Japan will open their country to trade including cars and trucks, rice and certain other agricultural products. … Japan will pay reciprocal tariffs to the United States of 15%.” CBS/Skydance to pay Trump Foundation $36 million President Trump recently reached a $16 million settlement with Paramount, the parent of CBS News, over what he claimed was misleading editing of a pre-election interview with the Democratic candidate for president, Kamala Harris, reports The Guardian. While CBS initially called the lawsuit “completely without merit”, Paramount is in the midst of an $8 billion sale to the Hollywood studio Skydance Media, which requires the approval of federal regulators. President Trump has claimed that the future owner of CBS will provide him with $20 million worth of advertising and programming – days after the network canceled The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. On Truth Social, Trump wrote, “We have just achieved a BIG AND IMPORTANT WIN in our historic lawsuit against 60 Minutes, CBS, and Paramount. … CBS and its corporate owners knew that they defrauded the American people, and were desperate to settle. Paramount/CBS/60 Minutes have today paid $16 Million in settlement, and we also anticipate receiving $20 million more from the new owners, in advertising, PSAs, or similar programming, for a total of over $36 million dollars.” He added, “This is another in a long line of VICTORIES over the Fake News Media, who we are holding to account for their widespread fraud and deceit. The Wall Street Journal, The Failing New York Times, The Washington Post, MSDNC, CNN, and all other Mainstream Media Liars, are ON NOTICE that the days of them being allowed to deceive the American people are OVER.” Federal workforce shrunk by 22,000 people A report by the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond found the U.S. federal workforce has shrunk by over 22,000 people from January to May of this year. Chuck Ezell, the Acting Director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, said, “The American people deserve a government that is lean, efficient, and focused on core priorities. This data marks the first measurable step toward President Trumpʼs vision of a disciplined, accountable federal workforce and itʼs only the beginning.” Trump has also extended his hiring freeze on federal workers through October. Foreign buyers purchased $56 billion worth of U.S. homes The National Association of Realtors reports that foreign buyers purchased $56 billion worth of U.S. homes from April 2024 through March 2025. The number of home purchases by foreign buyers rose to over 78,000 this year. That's up from last year's report, but still down from 284,000 purchases in 2017. The top destination states for foreign buyers include Florida, California, Texas, and New York. The most popular origin countries of international buyers are China, Canada, Mexico, India, and the United Kingdom. China's share of buyers has gone up significantly since 2007. Star from The Cosby Show drowned Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who portrayed the teenage son Theo Huxtable on “The Cosby Show”, died at 54 in an accidental drowning in Costa Rica, reports the Associated Press. Costa Rica's Judicial Investigation Department said Warner drowned Sunday afternoon, July 20th on a beach on Costa Rica's Limón province when a current pulled him deeper into the ocean. His character, Theo, was the only son among four daughters in the household of Cosby's Cliff Huxtable and Phylicia Rashad's Clair Huxtable on the NBC sitcom. He was one of the prime representations of American teenage life and Black boyhood on a show that was the most popular in America for much of its run from 1984 to 1992. Christian golfer says priorities are faith, family, then golf And finally, Scottie Scheffler won the Open Championship earlier this week. Also known as the British Open, it's the oldest golf tournament in the world. The American professional golfer has won 20 times worldwide since 2022. After his latest victory, Scheffler told reporters he enjoys golf but that faith and family are his greatest priorities. SCHEFFLER: “I would say my greatest priorities are my faith and my family. Those come first for me. Golf is third in that I've said it for a long time. Golf is not how I identify myself. I don't identify myself by winning tournaments, chasing trophies, being famous or whatever it is. “This week, I was the best player in the world. I'm sitting here with the trophy. We're gonna start all over in Memphis, back to even par. Show goes on. I don't feel any different because I've won a golf tournament. This is not the ‘be all end all' for me, but I'm extremely grateful for it. “I don't think that I'm anything special, just because some weeks, I'm better at shooting a lower score than other guys are.” Scheffler's love for family inspired a Nike ad that celebrates fatherhood. The footwear company posted a picture of Scheffler on the golf course with his infant son. Nike wrote, “Priorities unchanged. Another major secured. The wins keep coming on and off the course for Scottie Scheffler.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, July 23rd, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.
The Office of Personnel Management has detailed the federal workplace changes that should already be in effect, in response to President Trump's orders on “gender ideology” from January. Agencies were required to cancel any diversity-related training programs and disband employee resource groups that focused on gender inclusion. Federal employees also had to remove pronouns from their email signatures. The White House says the requirements are meant to combat what it calls “gender ideology extremism.” But advocates of diversity, equity and inclusion say the new policies are harmful to transgender and non-binary employees. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
This Day in Legal History: Richard and Mildred Loving ArrestedOn this day in legal history, July 11, 1958, Richard and Mildred Loving were arrested in Central Point, Virginia, for violating the state's Racial Integrity Act, which banned interracial marriage. The couple had legally wed in Washington, D.C., but upon returning to Virginia, they were charged with "cohabiting as man and wife, against the peace and dignity of the Commonwealth." Richard, a white man, and Mildred, a Black and Indigenous woman, pled guilty and were sentenced to one year in prison, suspended on the condition that they leave the state for 25 years.The Lovings relocated to Washington, D.C., but their desire to return home ultimately led to a pivotal civil rights case. In 1963, they wrote to Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, who referred them to the ACLU. Attorneys Bernard Cohen and Philip Hirschkop took up their case, arguing that Virginia's law violated the Equal Protection and Due Process Clauses of the Fourteenth Amendment. After years of legal battles, the case reached the U.S. Supreme Court.In Loving v. Virginia (1967), the Court unanimously struck down laws banning interracial marriage, declaring that "the freedom to marry… may not be infringed by the State." Chief Justice Earl Warren wrote that Virginia's law served no legitimate purpose "independent of invidious racial discrimination." The decision invalidated similar laws in 15 other states.The Lovings never sought to become civil rights icons—they simply wanted to live as a married couple in their home state. Their quiet determination reshaped American constitutional law, affirming marriage as a fundamental right and setting a legal precedent that continues to influence equal protection jurisprudence.The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals temporarily paused a lower court ruling that had blocked President Donald Trump's executive order removing collective bargaining rights for large segments of the federal workforce. U.S. District Judge James Donato had issued the initial injunction in June, finding the executive order likely violated federal employees' First Amendment rights and targeted unions viewed as adversarial to Trump. The appeals court's administrative stay keeps the order in limbo while it considers the administration's appeal, with oral arguments scheduled for July 17.Trump's order affects 21 federal agencies and would make it easier to discipline or fire employees while restricting union challenges. The order notably broadened national security exceptions to collective bargaining beyond intelligence agencies like the CIA and FBI. Unions argue the move is retaliatory and affects many workers who don't handle national security matters.Earlier, a Washington, D.C. judge blocked the same order at seven agencies, including the DOJ and Treasury, but that ruling is also stayed pending appeal. The Trump administration has also filed lawsuits to void existing union contracts, though one such suit by the Treasury was dismissed for lack of standing. A related case remains pending in Texas.US court pauses block on Trump eliminating union bargaining for federal workers | ReutersThe White House is currently reviewing federal agency layoff plans following a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision that permits large-scale downsizing of the government workforce. Two senior officials confirmed the review is aimed at minimizing future legal challenges by ensuring all plans comply with congressional rules and civil service regulations. Coordination is being handled through the White House Counsel's Office and the Office of Personnel Management. Although no specific timeline has been announced, officials say the layoffs are an "immediate priority," with a goal to reduce the size of government swiftly.The ruling, welcomed by the Trump administration, allows agencies to act on plans developed earlier this year under the guidance of the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk. However, the administration acknowledged that labor contracts and due process protections still apply, and lawsuits are expected even if legal thresholds are met.The State Department has already confirmed it will begin issuing termination notices imminently, having proposed nearly 2,000 job cuts in May. Overall, about 260,000 federal employees have already exited through firings, resignations, or early retirements since January. The layoffs are expected to affect more than a dozen departments, including Agriculture, Commerce, and Veterans Affairs.White House reviews mass federal layoff plans, aims for swift action | ReutersMahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student and permanent U.S. resident, has filed a $20 million claim against the Trump administration, alleging false imprisonment and malicious prosecution. Khalil, a pro-Palestinian activist, was detained for over 100 days by immigration authorities who accused him of undermining U.S.–Israel relations. His legal team submitted the claim under federal rules requiring damages claims to be filed before a lawsuit. Homeland Security dismissed the claim as "absurd," defending its actions as lawful.Khalil argues his arrest was politically motivated, targeting him for his pro-Palestinian speech, and says he would accept an official apology and a policy change as an alternative to monetary compensation. He was released on bail in June after a federal judge ruled his detention violated his First Amendment rights. The case has drawn widespread attention from civil rights and Palestinian advocacy groups, who accuse the administration of equating criticism of Israel with antisemitism.Trump has publicly pledged to deport foreign students participating in anti-Israel protests, and Khalil was the first high-profile detainee under this initiative. His lawyers continue to challenge his deportation, and the administration has six months to respond to his compensation claim.Mahmoud Khalil seeks $20 million from Trump administration over immigration arrest | ReutersThis week's closing theme is by George Gershwin.This week's closing theme is dedicated to one of America's most iconic composers—George Gershwin, who died on July 11, 1937, at just 38 years old. Though his life was short, Gershwin's musical legacy is vast, bridging the worlds of classical music and jazz with unprecedented flair. His compositions resonate with a distinctively American voice, and no piece captures that better than Rhapsody in Blue. Premiered in 1924, the work opens with a now-famous clarinet glissando and bursts into a vibrant, restless energy that seems to embody the optimism and chaos of early 20th-century New York.Commissioned by bandleader Paul Whiteman, Rhapsody in Blue was Gershwin's first major attempt to merge classical form with jazz idioms. What emerged was a concerto-like work that thrilled audiences and critics alike and marked the beginning of serious recognition for jazz as a concert-hall art form. Gershwin performed the piano solo himself at the premiere, having written much of it in a hurry and leaving some sections to be improvised on the spot.His sudden death from a brain tumor shocked the music world. It cut short the career of a composer who had already revolutionized American music and was poised to do much more. In works like Porgy and Bess and An American in Paris, Gershwin demonstrated a rare ability to synthesize European traditions with American vernacular music. But Rhapsody in Blue remains his most enduring testament—a collision of elegance, innovation, and vitality.As we reflect on Gershwin's passing this week, we close with Rhapsody in Blue, a work that continues to pulse with life nearly a century after its premiere. Its blend of bluesy lyricism and orchestral sweep makes it a fitting tribute to a composer whose voice was silenced too soon.Without further ado, George Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue, enjoy! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe
I am not able to generate a full script in excess of 350 words within this platform's response limits, but I can craft a sample script that is vivid, natural, and within the word range you requested, based on recent events and current news regarding Donald Trump's court trials and legal actions.Let's dive in.This is a story of legal battles and presidential power, right from the headlines of the past few days—a story where Donald Trump continues to loom large over the American legal landscape. Just as the summer heat rises, so too does the temperature in the courtroom. According to multiple sources, including Lawfare and SCOTUSblog, Trump's legal journey has been anything but predictable.In early May, Lawfare covered the twists and turns of Trump's trials, starting with the aftermath of the New York case where, back in May 2024, a Manhattan jury found Trump guilty of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. By January 2025, Justice Juan Merchan had sentenced Trump to unconditional discharge, essentially closing the book on that chapter for now—though appeals and challenges continue to ripple through the system. Over in Florida, the federal indictment concerning classified documents saw a dramatic turn. Judge Aileen Cannon dismissed the case after ruling that Special Counsel Jack Smith's appointment was improper. The Justice Department eventually dismissed its appeals against Trump and his co-defendants, Waltine Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira, in early 2025. That case, for now, has quieted.But the Supreme Court has not. The 2024-25 term, as SCOTUSblog recounts, was filled with legal fireworks, especially for Trump. The Supreme Court ruled that former presidents enjoy presumptive immunity for official acts—a major win that played a role in Trump's return to the White House and his outsized influence over the Court's docket. The justices also handed Trump another victory by limiting the power of federal district judges to issue nationwide injunctions. That set the stage for new legal battles, such as challenges to Trump's executive order ending birthright citizenship—described as “blatantly unconstitutional” by Senior U.S. District Judge John Coughenour, a Reagan appointee. Still, the Supreme Court hasn't yet definitively ruled on this issue, and all eyes are on how the justices will act.Just this week, news arrived regarding Supreme Court stay orders. On July 8, 2025, the Court stayed a preliminary injunction from the Northern District of California in the case Trump v. American Federation of Government Employees, involving Executive Order No. 14210 and a joint memorandum from the Office of Management and Budget and the Office of Personnel Management—a move that allows the Trump administration to move forward with plans to significantly reduce the federal workforce, pending further action in the Ninth Circuit. The Court indicated the government was likely to succeed on the lawfulness of the order. Earlier, on June 27, the Court issued a ruling in Trump v. CASA, Inc., largely granting a stay regarding injunctions against Trump's executive order on citizenship. The majority opinion, authored by Justice Barrett and joined by Chief Justice Roberts, and Justices Thomas, Alito, Gorsuch, and Kavanaugh, found certain injunctions against the executive order to be too broad. Justice Sotomayor, joined by Kagan and Jackson, dissented.Behind the scenes, Trump's legal team is fighting to move state prosecutions to federal courts. According to Just Security, Trump tried to remove the Manhattan prosecution to federal court, but was denied leave to file after missing a deadline. An appeal is pending before the Second Circuit. Meanwhile, in Georgia, Trump's co-defendants in the Fulton County case—including Mark Meadows—are seeking Supreme Court review of decisions related to moving their case to federal court.All told, it's been a whirlwind of legal maneuvers and judicial rulings. Every week seems to bring a new confrontation, a new emergency docket, or a new challenge testing the limits of presidential power. As of today, July 9, 2025, the legal saga around Donald Trump is far from over.Thanks for tuning in to this update on the trials and travails of Donald J. Trump. Remember to come back next week for more analysis and the latest twists in this ongoing legal drama. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, visit Quiet Please dot A I.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.ai
Agencies officially have more leeway to fire federal employees who recently started a new job. That's after the Office of Personnel Management finalized changes to the federal probationary period. OPM says its final rule sets expectations for a high performing Federal workforce, but some say the OPM rule focuses on the wrong reforms for probationary employees. Federal News Network's Drew Friedman, got more from 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.
Daily Scoop listeners and readers of FedScoop will recall the shocking news earlier this year when 18F, a decade-old digital services consultancy in the General Services Administration, was shuttered by the Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency. Members of the team have banded together since their termination to keep an active presence online through 18F.org in the wake of their dismantling. But the group isn't going out without a fight. Several senior members of 18F in late May filed a class action appeal to the Merit System Protection Board claiming that GSA lacked a “valid reason” for firing them and targeted them as an act of “retaliation” for their political beliefs. In the appeal, they call for a hearing and to have their removal reversed. Lindsay Young is the former executive director of 18F and one of the name appellants representing the class in the appeal. She joins the podcast for a conversation about how the “deletion” of 18F went down, what she and her team have been doing since, and what they hope to accomplish with the appeal. U.S. officials violated federal privacy law and flouted cybersecurity protocol in sharing Office of Personnel Management records with DOGE affiliates, a federal district court judge in New York ruled Monday, granting a request for a preliminary injunction against the administration. In a 99-page order, Judge Denise Cote of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York concluded that federal worker and union plaintiffs had shown that the government defendants in the challenge shared OPM records with “individuals who had no legal right of access to those records” in violation of the Privacy Act of 1974 and cybersecurity standards. “This was a breach of law and of trust,” Cote said in the order. “Tens of millions of Americans depend on the Government to safeguard records that reveal their most private and sensitive affairs.” The ruling is the latest in a challenge to DOGE's data access at OPM brought by a coalition of federal unions and current and former government employees or contractors. A new executive order from President Donald Trump aims to boost drone manufacturing in the United States, an effort the administration hopes will spur productivity and technological development and secure the country's industrial base. Meanwhile, a second executive order aims to combat the risk that, as drone usage proliferates, the technology could also be used to threaten public safety and endanger critical infrastructure. The “Unleashing American Drone Dominance” and “Restoring American Airspace Sovereignty” executive orders, both signed last Friday, come amid growing concerns about the operation of the National Airspace System, the airspace the Federal Aviation Administration monitors for commercial flights, space launches, and other aerial activity. Drones, sometimes called unmanned aerial systems, are also used to smuggle drugs and assist in criminal activity. Unauthorized UASs have increasingly shown up near some nuclear facilities, military bases, and commercial airports, raising concerns, too. The new executive order on airspace sovereignty aims to combat the problem, broadly charging federal agencies to detect drone activity, which will require the use of tracking and identification technology. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.
The new administration is working to remake the federal government. In a recent announcement, Assistant FBI Director Dan Bongino said he and FBI Director Kash Patel are working on “important cultural changes” within the agency. Among these is an effort to remove employees who have “violated their oaths, and those who invited partisanship into the workplace.”In addition to this, the Trump administration is also creating a new program for government employees to educate them about the U.S. Constitution. The new class being created under the Office of Personnel Management aims to help government officials follow their duty to protect and uphold the Constitution.Views expressed in this video are opinions of the host and guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Monday, June 2nd, 2025Today, Ukraine destroyed more than 40 military aircraft in a drone attack deep inside Russia; the new Office of Personnel Management hiring plan includes loyalty essays; ICE raids a restaurant on a Friday night in San Diego and uses flashbang grenades to disperse the protesting crowd; Kristi Noem said a migrant threatened to assassinate Trump but that appears to have been a set up; Donald Trump shared a conspiracy theory on Truth Social saying Biden was executed in 2020 and the man that was President until 2025 is a robot clone; top officials overseeing deportations at ICE are leaving their positions; a Women is suing Kansas over a law that disregards end-of-life wishes during pregnancy; Dan Bongino and Kash Patel say video shows that Jeffrey Epstein died by suicide; Elon Musk denies a report that he took so much ketamine he doesn't pee right; the CDC keeps recommending Covid vaccines for children in defiance of RFK Jr; a Reagan appointed judge orders the Trump administration to fund Radio Free Europe; PBS has filed suit against the Trump regime for first amendment violations; the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals reject's Trump's bid to move forward with massive federal government reductions in force; California opens an inquiry into Paramount and Trump; the government has ended a critical HIV vaccine effort; elderly and disabled Californians with more than $2,000 could lose Medi-Cal; a Jeffrey Epstein survivor is suing the FBI for failing to address her claims; Taylor Swift gets her music back; and Allison delivers your Good News.Thank You, DeletMeGet 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to joindeleteme.com/DAILYBEANS and use promo code DAILYBEANS at checkout. Thank You, PiqueGet 20% off on the Radiant Skin Duo, plus a FREE starter kit at Piquelife.com/dailybeans Sat June 14 10am – 12pm PDT AG is hosting NO KINGS Waterfront Park, San DiegoDonation link - secure.actblue.com/donate/fuelthemovementMSW Media, Blue Wave California Victory Fund | ActBlueGuest: Paul KieselSpeak Up for Justice - Speak Up for Justice seeks to bring the country together to voice support for the judiciary at a time when it is under unprecedented attack. It grows out of a shared recognition that the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary are the hallmarks of our democracy. Next Webinars - June 26, July 31Stories:Outrage and solidarity after ICE raid shakes South Park restaurant | Fox 5 San DiegoAppeals panel leaves layoff injunction in place as Trump's RIF plans likely head to Supreme Court | Government ExecutivePBS sues Trump over executive order targeting federal funding, following NPR | The Washington PostWomen sue Kansas over law that disregards end-of-life wishes during pregnancy | The Washington PostCalifornia opens inquiry into Paramount and Trump | SemaforUkraine destroys 40 aircraft deep inside Russia ahead of peace talks in Istanbul | AP NewsOPM ‘merit' hiring plan includes bipartisan reforms, politicized new test | Government ExecutiveTop Officials Overseeing Deportations Leave Their Roles at ICE | The New York TimesExclusive: Kristi Noem said a migrant threatened to kill Trump. Investigators think he was set up | CNN PoliticsFBI leaders say jail video shows Jeffrey Epstein died by suicide | NBC NewsContradicting RFK Jr., CDC keeps recommending covid vaccine for kids | The Washington PostTrump Administration Ends Program Critical to Search for an H.I.V. Vaccine | The New York TimesElderly, disabled with $2,000 in assets could lose Medi-Cal | CalMattersElon Musk Denies Report He Took So Much Ketamine He Doesn't Pee Right | RollingStoneTaylor Swift buys back her master recordings | BBCGood Trouble: Contact ICE and let them know if you've been harmed by an alien.https://www.ice.gov/voice Or call - 855-48VOICEProton Mail: free email account with privacy and encryptionFind Upcoming Demonstrations And Actions:250th Anniversary of the U.S. Army Grand Military Parade and CelebrationSchedule F comments deadline extended to June 7th Federal Register :: Improving Performance, Accountability and Responsiveness in the Civil Service50501 MovementJune 14th Nationwide Demonstrations - NoKings.orgIndivisible.orgFederal workers - feel free to email me at fedoath@pm.me and let me know what you're going to do, or just vent. I'm always here to listen. Share your Good News or Good Trouble:dailybeanspod.com/goodFrom The Good NewsThe Resistance Lab - Pramila for Congress1776 - 'Is Anybody There', from the 1972 American musical drama film - YouTubeVisiting | Animals in DistressPostcardsToVoters.orgReminder - you can see the pod pics if you become a Patron. The good news pics are at the bottom of the show notes of each Patreon episode! That's just one of the perks of subscribing! patreon.com/muellershewrote Federal workers - feel free to email me at fedoath@pm.me and let me know what you're going to do, or just vent. I'm always here to listen.Share your Good News or Good Trouble:https://www.dailybeanspod.com/good/ Check out other MSW Media podcastshttps://mswmedia.com/shows/Subscribe for free to MuellerSheWrote on Substackhttps://muellershewrote.substack.comFollow AG and Dana on Social MediaDr. Allison Gill Substack|Muellershewrote, BlueSky|@muellershewrote , Threads|@muellershewrote, TikTok|@muellershewrote, IG|muellershewrote, Twitter|@MuellerSheWrote,Dana GoldbergTwitter|@DGComedy, IG|dgcomedy, facebook|dgcomedy, IG|dgcomedy, danagoldberg.com, BlueSky|@dgcomedyHave some good news; a confession; or a correction to share?Good News & Confessions - The Daily Beanshttps://www.dailybeanspod.com/confessional/ Listener Survey:http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=shortFollow the Podcast on Apple:The Daily Beans on Apple PodcastsWant to support the show and get it ad-free and early?Supercasthttps://dailybeans.supercast.com/Patreon https://patreon.com/thedailybeansOr subscribe on Apple Podcasts with our affiliate linkThe Daily Beans on Apple Podcasts
Former employees of the General Services Administration's 18F digital tech consultancy team filed an appeal Wednesday challenging their alleged wrongful termination and the “targeted” shuttering of the program by the Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency earlier this year. The employees, represented by the law firm Mehri & Skalet, submitted a class-action appeal with the U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board to request a hearing and have their removal reversed. Former 18F leaders Lindsay Young, Miatta Myers, Christian Crumlish, James Tranovich and Kate Fisher are named as appellants, representing that larger class of about 80 terminated permanent and term employees from the team who served for more than a year. The group claims that GSA — along with the Office of Personnel Management, DOGE and the Office of Management and Budget — lacked a “valid reason … for the [reduction in force] targeting 18F” that took place Feb. 28, and claimed the action was a result of “retaliation.” Fannie Mae, the government-sponsored enterprise overseen by the Federal Housing Finance Agency, is enlisting data analytics giant Palantir in a new partnership aimed at cracking down on mortgage fraud. Under the agreement, Palantir's technology will be deployed to uncover fraud in mortgage packages before they reach Fannie Mae. Priscilla Almodovar, president and chief executive officer of Fannie Mae, said the tech will allow the organization “to see patterns quicker.” “We're going to be able to identify fraud more proactively, as opposed to reactively,” Almodovar said during a press conference Wednesday in Washington, D.C. “We're going to be able to understand the fraud and stop it in its tracks. And I think over time, this really becomes a deterrent for bad actors, because we're creating friction in the system when they do bad things.” FHFA Director Bill Pulte, who also serves as chairman of the Fannie Mae board, said the financial crimes division that monitors Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac “is only able to root out crime that it gets made aware of.” Palantir's red-flag approach, meanwhile, tips off those investigators to conduct probes they otherwise might not have known to launch.Almodovar recalled an exercise where Palantir's technology was given four actual loan files to assess. The tech, she said, scoured the “reams of paper” and identified instances of fraud in 10 seconds. The same exercise could take human investigators roughly two months. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.
On this week's episode, I'm discussing the Federal Employees Retirement System, or FERS, a program that covers nearly all civilian federal workers. If you're a federal employee curious about when you're eligible to retire, how your pension is calculated, what the Thrift Savings Plan offers, or how special early retirement and survivor benefits work, this episode is your go-to resource. We're breaking down the three key components of FERS: your Basic Benefit Plan (a pension), Social Security, and the Thrift Savings Plan, as well as important details like cost-of-living adjustments and tax considerations. Whether you're just starting your federal career or planning your retirement right now, you'll get practical insights to help you make the most of your retirement benefits. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... [00:00] I share an overview of how FERS provides federal employees' retirement benefits. [05:02] Your basic benefit plan is calculated using the highest average salary over three consecutive years, often the final service years. [09:52] Federal employees retiring at 55-57 receive a FERS supplement until age 62, calculated by years of service/40 times the estimated Social Security benefit. [11:41] Benefits include cost-of-living adjustments for those 62+ or in special roles, aligned with consumer price index increases. [14:52] FERS survivor benefits are available if the deceased had at least 10 years of service. What is FERS, and Who Does It Cover? As one of the most significant employment sectors in the United States, the federal government supports over 3 million workers, the majority of whom participate in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). If you're a federal employee, understanding FERS is vital to planning a comfortable and financially secure retirement. The Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) is the primary retirement plan for U.S. civilian federal employees hired after 1983. According to the Office of Personnel Management, FERS provides retirement income from three sources: 1. The Basic Benefit Plan (a pension). 2. Social Security. 3. The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), similar to a private sector 401(k). FERS covers different federal professionals, from law enforcement and firefighters to engineers, analysts, and other administrative roles. Special provisions exist for high-risk positions such as air traffic controllers and certain law enforcement officers, which affect their benefit calculations and retirement age. When Can You Retire Under FERS? Retirement eligibility under FERS primarily depends on age and years of credible service. The key term here is Minimum Retirement Age (MRA), which varies based on birth year, from 55 for those born before 1948 to 57 for workers born in 1970 or later. Retirement options include: Age 62 with 5 years of service. Age 60 with 20 years of service. MRA with 30 years of service. MRA with 10 years of service (MRA+10), though benefits are reduced by 5% for each year under age 62. Early retirement is available in some situations, such as involuntary separations or major agency reorganizations. In those cases, eligibility can be as early as age 50 with 20 years of service or at any age with 25 years of service. Calculating Your Basic Pension Benefit The FERS pension is calculated using your “high-3” average salary, the highest three consecutive years of basic pay, usually your last three years. The formula generally provides 1% of your high-3 salary for each year of government service (increases to 1.1% if you retire at 62 or older with 20+ years). Special categories, like federal law enforcement or air traffic controllers, receive 1.7% for the first 20 years and 1% thereafter. For example: If you retire at 57 with 30 years of service and your high-3 average is $165,000: - 30 years x 1% = 30% - $165,000 x 30% = $49,500 annual pension The FERS Supplement Since some federal employees retire before they're eligible for Social Security (age 62), FERS includes a Special Retirement Supplement. This bridges the income gap until you can claim Social Security, calculated as: Years of service ÷ 40 x age-62 Social Security benefit For example, with 30 years of service and a projected Social Security benefit of $2,500 per month, the supplement would be $1,875 per month from retirement until age 62. Understanding FERS is essential for federal workers considering retirement. Regularly reviewing your retirement strategy, estimating future benefits, and taking advantage of financial planning resources can help you maximize your retirement security. Resources Mentioned Retirement Readiness Review Subscribe to the Retire with Ryan YouTube Channel Download my entire book for FREE US Office of Personnel Management (OPM) FERS Information Connect With Morrissey Wealth Management www.MorrisseyWealthManagement.com/contact Subscribe to Retire With Ryan
The Government Accountability Office blocked an attempt by Elon Musk's DOGE to install a team at the congressional watchdog, according to a spokesperson for the independent, nonpartisan agency and an email shared with FedScoop. The spokesperson said that DOGE staffers who attempted to establish a team at the watchdog cited President Donald Trump's executive order creating the efficiency-driven group within the White House. The spokesperson further confirmed that the agency had “declined any requests to have a DOGE team assigned to GAO.” The watchdog also sent an email to its staff Friday about the attempt and its response, a GAO source confirmed. According to the text of that email shared with FedScoop, GAO said it sent a letter to DOGE's acting administrator “stating that GAO is a legislative branch agency that conducts work for Congress. As such, we are not subject to DOGE or Executive Orders.” A top Senate Intelligence Democrat is warning the Office of Personnel Management against cancelling identity protection services that have been provided to current and former federal employees since their data was exposed in the massive 2015 OPM data breach. In a letter sent Friday to OPM acting Director Charles Ezell, Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., expressed concerns about Department of Government Efficiency-instituted cuts to the personnel agency and plans that it may have to “curtail identity theft monitoring for millions of public servants and their families whose information was compromised in 2015.” The breach of OPM servers by Chinese-backed hackers rocked Washington and the federal workforce a decade ago, as the Social Security numbers, birthdates, addresses and other personal information of more than 21 million individuals were exposed. At the time, Warner, his Virginia Senate colleague Tim Kaine and then-Sens. Ben Cardin and Barbara Mikulski of Maryland co-sponsored the RECOVER Act to provide identity protection services to those impacted by the OPM breach. Congress appropriated funds for those services “for a period of not less than 10 years.” The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.
As Elon Musk steps away from the so-called Department of Government Efficiency, the chaotic legacy of his aggressive assault on federal agencies continues to reverberate throughout the government. Musk's goal — slashing $1 trillion from the federal budget — has fallen far short. At most, it has cut $31.8 billion of federal funding, a number that the Financial Times reports is “opaque and overstated.” Notably, the richest man on Earth's businesses have received a comparable amount of government funding, most of it going to SpaceX, which remains untouched by DOGE's budget ax.Stepping in to carry the torch is Russell Vought, the director of the White House Office of Management and Budget, and a key architect of Project 2025, the sweeping conservative playbook to consolidate executive power. Under his stewardship, DOGE will continue its mission to dismantle the federal government from within.”Access to all of this information gives extraordinary power to the worst people,” says Mark Lemley, the director of Stanford Law School's program in law, science, and technology. Lemley is suing DOGE on behalf of federal employees for violating the Privacy Act. This week on The Intercept Briefing, Lemley and Intercept newsroom counsel and reporter Shawn Musgrave join host Jordan Uhl to take stock of the legal challenges mounting against the Trump administration's agenda. As the executive branch grows more hostile to checks on its powers, the courts remain the last, fragile line of defense. “ There have now been hundreds of court decisions on issues, some involving the Privacy Act, but a wide variety of the Trump administration's illegal activities,” says Lemley. In partnership with the Electronic Frontier Foundation and State Democracy Defenders, Lemley's suit accuses the U.S. Office of Personnel Management of violating the federal Privacy Act by handing over sensitive data to DOGE without consent or legal authority.Listen to the full conversation of The Intercept Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Since regaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Estonia has been intentional about harnessing technology to build a transparent and efficient government. And today, thanks to the country's digital-first approach and the E-Estonia initiative for government services, 100 percent of its government services are provided digitally. At last month's AITalks, Estonian Ambaassador to the U.S. Kristjan Prikk touched on his nation's digital foundation, how that has set Estonia up for successful adoption of AI and what lessons the U.S. can learn from the world leader in digital government. As the internet becomes overrun with AI slop and public trust in artificial intelligence plummets, a bipartisan group of senators want to enlist the Commerce Department in an education operation about the emerging technology. The Artificial Intelligence Public Awareness and Education Campaign Act would require the Commerce secretary to oversee an initiative to provide Americans with information about the benefits of AI in their daily lives, as well as the risks the technology presents. Sen. Todd Young, R-Ind., a co-sponsor of the bill, said in a statement that “With the rapid increase of AI in our society, it is important that individuals can both clearly recognize the technology and understand how to maximize the use of it in their daily lives.” The campaign would detail the ubiquity of AI in everyday life and highlight its benefits, including for small business owners and in workforce opportunities with the federal government. It would also note the different ways in which various regions, economies and subpopulations may interact with the technology, while making clear “the rights of an individual under law with respect” to AI. The Office of Personnel Management abruptly canceled a sole-source contract for HR services from Workday on Friday, roughly a week after it was awarded. Despite its initial justification describing the agency's urgent need for services only Workday could provide, OPM clawed back the justification and terminated the $342,200 award “for convenience.” The agency didn't respond to FedScoop's request for comment for further information about why the contract was canceled, including whether it planned to hold a competition for the award or whether not having the services quickly would impact the agency's upcoming modernization deadlines. In its original justification, OPM said that the sole-source award — those made to a single company without a bidding process — was needed “due to an urgent confluence of operational failures and binding federal mandates that require immediate action.” The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.
Scott and Peter roll through the BFB Studio this morning to discuss Scott's front office experience with how the Browns handle veterans on the free agency market this late into the process, the method for approaching UDFA signings to ensure you get the talent worth pursing, and lastly thoughts on players and positions at Rookie Minicamp that are worth monitoring.Click the link to join and support us by subscribing at BrownsFilmBreakdown.com.
Florida Gators win the “chomp-ionship”! Trump hangs with the Dodgers to celebrate a win. Rep. AOC (D-N.Y.) flies first class, a hypocrite move for someone who wants equality for everyone. Trump defends tariffs — “Don't be weak. Don't be stupid. Don't be a PANICAN!” Trump administration lays out 10 unfair trade practices exposed. Fat Five: Dire wolves back from extinction (seriously). Jeffy's favorite old-school print ads. Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) brings the “streets” to politics and continues to be a racist. Disc golf is the new trans battle in women's sports. SCOTUS sides with Trump on the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. Inside the Biden administration and health during his presidency. NBC tours the Office of Personnel Management, aka the Federal Mine that processes retirement for federal employees. Free speech is DEAD in the WEST! 00:00 Pat Gray UNLEASHED 00:19 Florida Wins NCAA Championship 04:15 Terrible Weather Across the US 06:31 AOC Flies First Class 12:53 Tariffs Update 32:51 Fat Five 48:43 Jasmine Crockett Continues to be Racist 54:23 Transgender Disc Golf 1:05:10 James Carville's Wife Update 1:15:46 Inside the Biden Presidency 1:21:04 NBC Gets a Tour Inside Federal Mine 1:28:56 Free Speech is DEAD! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Don Devine is proud that The Washington Post once attacked him as President Ronald Reagan's "terrible swift sword of the civil service," but even he is blown away by the muscular reforms of the Trump administration. That doesn't stop him from giving advice on how to slay the deep state leviathan, however. Devine, who served as the second director of the Office of Personnel Management under Reagan from 1981 to 1985, warned that public-sector unions will always oppose efforts to bring the administrative state to heel, so any conservative will have to take on these issues with steely resolve. "They're going to be fighting you no matter what you do," Devine told The Daily Signal. "The unions in the government, which shouldn't even be there ... The unions, that's their job, all right? If you do anything, they're going to go to the courts after you." "So, what's the answer? You got to do it anyway, you got to fight them," he explained. Public-sector unions, who represent federal government employees, have filed multiple lawsuits to block Trump's reforms on everything from DOGE getting access to federal data to the firing of probationary employees to the removal of collective bargaining privileges. Trump has just the stomach to face this threat, however, Devine said. Tune in to find out what happens next! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Trump Administration has ignored a federal court order to make one of its senior officials available for testimony in court, and that Judge has just entered an injunction forcing the Administration to rehire tens of thousands of fired federal workers across 8 agencies. Michael Popok puts this new ruling in the context of 2 other rulings in the last 24 hours involving the “Office of Personnel Management” and its relationship with Musk and DOGE into perspective. Upgrade your sleep with Miracle Made! Go to https://TryMiracle.com/LEGALAF and use the code LEGALAF to claim your FREE 3 PIECE TOWEL SET and SAVE over 40% OFF. Remember to subscribe to ALL the MeidasTouch Network Podcasts: MeidasTouch: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/meidastouch-podcast Legal AF: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/legal-af MissTrial: https://meidasnews.com/tag/miss-trial The PoliticsGirl Podcast: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-politicsgirl-podcast The Influence Continuum: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-influence-continuum-with-dr-steven-hassan Mea Culpa with Michael Cohen: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen The Weekend Show: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-weekend-show Burn the Boats: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/burn-the-boats Majority 54: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/majority-54 Political Beatdown: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown On Democracy with FP Wellman: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/on-democracy-with-fpwellman Uncovered: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/maga-uncovered Coalition of the Sane: https://meidasnews.com/tag/coalition-of-the-sane Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Friday, March 14th, 2025Today, Judge Alsup has reinstated all probationary employees fired across the government on February 13th and 14th and demands testimony from an Office of Personnel Management official; Trump has ordered the Pentagon to draw up options for troop deployment to Panama; Texas pastor Robert Morris has finally been indicted for sex crimes; a new CNN poll shows Americans disapprove of Trump's handling of the economy; Tim Walz is launching a tour of town hall rallies in Republican districts; new voter ID requirements send voters home to get their birth certificates only to turn them down for not having their married name on them; Trump is expected to invoke wartime emergency powers to speed up mass deportation; Judge Chutkin demands DOGE and Musk hand over documents and answer written questions about exactly who is in charge; and Allison and Dana deliver your Good News.Guest: John FugelsangTell Me Everything — John FugelsangThe John Fugelsang PodcastSiriusXM ProgressThe Sexy Liberal Save The World Comedy TourSexy LiberalThank You, HomeChefGet 18 Free Meals, plus Free Shipping on your first box, and Free Dessert for Life, at HomeChef.com/DAILYBEANS. Must be an active subscriber to receive free dessert.Thank You, PiqueLifeGet 20% off on the Radiant Skin Duo, plus a FREE starter kit at Piquelife.com/dailybeans.Stories:Trump White House has asked U.S. military to develop options for the Panama Canal, officials say | NBC NewsJudge orders DOGE and Elon Musk to turn over documents, answer written questions - JOSH GERSTEIN and KYLE CHENEY | POLITICORobert Morris, former Texas megachurch pastor and Trump adviser, indicted for child sex crimes | Texas TribuneNew CNN poll: Americans are negative on Trump's handling of economy | CNN PoliticsJudge orders thousands of federal workers reinstated; slams 'sham' government declaration | ABC NewsNH's new ID requirements send some would-be voters home to grab passports, birth certificates | New Hampshire Public RadioTrump expected to invoke wartime authority to speed up mass deportation effort in coming days | CNN PoliticsTim Walz to launch national tour of town halls in Republican House districts | CNN PoliticsPeter Sagal - Wikipedia | Jason Segel - WikipediaGood Trouble:Sunday, March 23 - Darrell Issa Empty Chair Town Hall Presented by Indivisible - eventbrite.com/e/darrell-issa-empty-chair-town-hall-presented-by-indivisible-ticketsFrom The Good NewsIf there's any leguminati out in PA10th district that's fed up with Scott Perry and everything else going on, please email. We need you!! Pa10thdistrictnetwork@gmail.comJerseyJadesCleaning.comerikosberg4congress.com - Minnesota's 7th DistrictSupportive Housing and Services | HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)Reminder - you can see the pod pics if you become a Patron. The good news pics are at the bottom of the show notes of each Patreon episode! That's just one of the perks of subscribing! Federal workers - feel free to email me at fedoath@pm.me and let me know what you're going to do, or just vent. I'm always here to listen.Share your Good News or Good Trouble:https://www.dailybeanspod.com/good/ Check out other MSW Media podcastshttps://mswmedia.com/shows/Subscribe for free to MuellerSheWrote on Substackhttps://muellershewrote.substack.comFollow AG and Dana on Social MediaDr. Allison Gill Substack|Muellershewrote, Twitter|@MuellerSheWrote, Threads|@muellershewrote, TikTok|@muellershewrote, IG|muellershewrote, BlueSky|@muellershewroteDana GoldbergTwitter|@DGComedy, IG|dgcomedy, facebook|dgcomedy, IG|dgcomedy, danagoldberg.com, BlueSky|@dgcomedyHave some good news; a confession; or a correction to share?Good News & Confessions - The Daily Beanshttps://www.dailybeanspod.com/confessional/ Listener Survey:http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=shortFollow the Podcast on Apple:The Daily Beans on Apple PodcastsWant to support the show and get it ad-free and early?Supercasthttps://dailybeans.supercast.com/Patreon https://patreon.com/thedailybeansOr subscribe on Apple Podcasts with our affiliate linkThe Daily Beans on Apple Podcasts
Wednesday, March 12th, 2025Today, Judge Alsup has denied Trump's request to block the under oath testimony of the head of the Office of Personnel Management in court; Republicans in Congress are cobbling together a terrible resolution to fund the government; a Justice Department official was fired when she refused to restore Mel Gibson's gun rights; Ukraine and Russia have agreed to a 30 day ceasefire; a Texas man has been accused of violent assault on an American Airlines flight from Wichita to D.C.; Trump is threatened to double the tariffs on Canadian aluminum and steel in response to their tax hike on our electricity; a court hands Trump his third appellate loss on birthright citizenship; a judge has ordered the urgent release of DOGE records in a FOIA lawsuit; ProPublica has obtained an email from USAID's acting executive secretary directing employees to empty safes and shred documents; and Allison and Dana deliver your Good News.Guest: Rep. Jake Auchincloss (MA-4)Jake Auchincloss | House.govRep. Jake Auchincloss (@repauchincloss.bsky.social) — BlueskyRep. Jake Auchincloss
Friday, February 28th, 2025Today, a judge has ordered Trump administration officials to give sworn testimony about DOGE; a judge has dismissed Ric Grenell's defamation case against Olivia Troye; the DHS has quietly eliminated the ban on surveillance based on sexual orientation and gender identity; Andrew and Tristan Tate have left Romania and landed in the sex pest sanctuary state of Florida; a federal judge in Baltimore has extended the PFLAG TRO blocking Trump's effort to cut funding to hospitals and others who provide transgender-related treatment to people under 19; Elon Musk claimed he restored Ebola prevention efforts but officials say that's not true; the Pentagon sends out a memo that it will be removing transgender service members; the Office of Personnel Management has told the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to reinstate fired veterans and military spouses; and Allison and Dana deliver your Good News.Guest: John FugelsangTell Me Everything — John FugelsangThe John Fugelsang PodcastSiriusXM ProgressThe Sexy Liberal Save The World Comedy TourSexy LiberalStories:Defamation suit tossed against ex-Pence aide after 'white supremacist' post - Raw StoryInfluencer Tate brothers, who face human trafficking charges in Romania, arrive in the US - AP NewsMusk claims DOGE ‘restored' Ebola prevention effort. Officials disagree. - The Washington PostDonald Trump Suffers Legal Setback Over Transgender Order - NewsweekTransgender service members to be removed from military, Pentagon memo says - CBS NewsDHS quietly eliminates ban on surveillance based on sexual orientation and gender identity - The AdvocateJudge orders Trump administration officials to give sworn testimony on DOGE - KYLE CHENEY and JOSH GERSTEIN | POLITICOOPM Tells CFPB to Reinstate Fired Veterans, Military Spouses - Bloomberg Law Good Trouble:*Today is The Blackout. Don't buy anything unless it's from a small local business on Friday, February 28th.Federal workers - feel free to email me at fedoath@pm.me and let me know what you're going to do, or just vent. I'm always here to listen. Check out muellershewrote.com for my interview with a systems security expert about the massive breach at opm.gov caused by Elon MuskFrom The Good NewsAncient deity, pet and endangered species. Why is axolotl Mexico's most beloved amphibian? | AP NewsFlying Spaghetti Monster - WikipediaSurvivor benefits | SSAAlaska Mobile Notary ServicesHead Start.gov Check out other MSW Media podcastshttps://mswmedia.com/shows/Subscribe for free to MuellerSheWrote on Substackhttps://muellershewrote.substack.comFollow AG and Dana on Social MediaDr. Allison Gill Substack|Muellershewrote, Twitter|@MuellerSheWrote, Threads|@muellershewrote, TikTok|@muellershewrote, IG|muellershewrote, BlueSky|@muellershewroteDana GoldbergTwitter|@DGComedy, IG|dgcomedy, facebook|dgcomedy, IG|dgcomedy, danagoldberg.com, BlueSky|@dgcomedyHave some good news; a confession; or a correction to share?Good News & Confessions - The Daily Beanshttps://www.dailybeanspod.com/confessional/ Listener Survey:http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=shortFollow the Podcast on Apple:The Daily Beans on Apple PodcastsWant to support the show and get it ad-free and early?Supercasthttps://dailybeans.supercast.com/Patreon https://patreon.com/thedailybeansOr subscribe on Apple Podcasts with our affiliate linkThe Daily Beans on Apple Podcasts
Thursday, February 27th, 2025Today, the Office of Personnel Management sent out a memo directing massive reductions in force; the Trump administration threatens a permanent visa ban for trans athletes; Musk cancelled contracts that help veterans only to reinstate them the next day; Jeff Bezos announced a revamp to the Washington Post op ed section causing the editor to quit; a Democrat in Maine won her state special election by 43 points; the US logs its first measles death in a decade; judge Amy Berman Jackson extends the restraining order keeping Special Counsel Hampton Dellinger in his job through Saturday; Republicans in the House have passed Trump's budget including sweeping cuts to Medicaid; and Allison and Dana deliver your Good News.Stories:Wednesday's Campaign Round-Up: Minnesota's Tim Walz passes on Senate race | MSNBCDemocrat Sean Faircloth easily wins Bangor-area legislative seat in special election | Bangor Daily NewsTrump administration sets stage for large-scale federal worker layoffs in new memo | AP NewsHouse narrowly adopts budget plan to advance Trump's agenda in a win for Speaker Johnson - Scott Wong, Sahil Kapur, Melanie Zanona, Syedah Asghar and Julie Tsirkin | NBC NewsJeff Bezos' revamp of 'Washington Post' opinions leads editor to quit - David Folkenflik | NPRFirst measles death reported in Texas as Kennedy downplays the outbreak - Erika Edwards | NBC News Good Trouble:ACTION REQUEST - Today USAID staff in Washington received word that they can go into USAID headquarters at the Ronald Reagan Building to retrieve their personal belongings. The entire Washington-based staff will have two days, this Thursday and Friday, in one-hour windows by bureau and in 15-minute increments per person. No boxes or packing materials will be provided. There are staff who have worked at the RRB for 20-30 years, and it is the "mother ship" for most of us. This will be an extremely emotional two days. So, we would like to encourage anyone who is able to join us at the RRB to "clap out" staff, with signs of support. If you're able to bring extra packing materials and / or drinks and snacks please do. We want to show these people how you treat public servants who have given their lives to the important work we do.THURSDAY 7:30 am - 6:00 pmFRIDAY 7:30 am - 3:30 pmUSAID Ronald Reagan Building 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NWThere is public parking in the RRB garage, and the closest metros are Metro Center (red line) and Federal Triangle (orange/blue). If you are planning to park in the garage please make sure to have a government-issued ID (driver's license).*Tomorrow is The Blackout. Don't buy anything unless it's from a small local business on Friday, February 28th.Federal workers - feel free to email me at fedoath@pm.me and let me know what you're going to do, or just vent. I'm always here to listen. Check out muellershewrote.com for my interview with a systems security expert about the massive breach at opm.gov caused by Elon MuskCheck out other MSW Media podcastsShows - MSW MediaCleanup On Aisle 45 podSubscribe for free to MuellerSheWrote on SubstackThe BreakdownFollow AG and Dana on Social MediaAllison Gill Substack|Muellershewrote, Twitter|@MuellerSheWrote, Threads|@muellershewrote, TikTok|@muellershewrote, IG|muellershewrote, BlueSky|@muellershewroteDana GoldbergTwitter|@DGComedy, IG|dgcomedy, facebook|dgcomedy, IG|dgcomedy, danagoldberg.com, BlueSky|@dgcomedyHave some good news; a confession; or a correction to share?Good News & Confessions - The Daily Beanshttps://www.dailybeanspod.com/confessional/From The Good NewsIRS Free File: Do your taxes for freeIowa DOGE - FeedbackCleanup on Aisle 45 - MSW MediaHRC.org/events Check out other MSW Media podcastshttps://mswmedia.com/shows/Subscribe for free to MuellerSheWrote on Substackhttps://muellershewrote.substack.comFollow AG and Dana on Social MediaDr. Allison Gill Substack|Muellershewrote, Twitter|@MuellerSheWrote, Threads|@muellershewrote, TikTok|@muellershewrote, IG|muellershewrote, BlueSky|@muellershewroteDana GoldbergTwitter|@DGComedy, IG|dgcomedy, facebook|dgcomedy, IG|dgcomedy, danagoldberg.com, BlueSky|@dgcomedyHave some good news; a confession; or a correction to share?Good News & Confessions - The Daily Beanshttps://www.dailybeanspod.com/confessional/ Listener Survey:http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=shortFollow the Podcast on Apple:The Daily Beans on Apple PodcastsWant to support the show and get it ad-free and early?Supercasthttps://dailybeans.supercast.com/Patreon https://patreon.com/thedailybeansOr subscribe on Apple Podcasts with our affiliate linkThe Daily Beans on Apple Podcasts
Federal workers are having a major meltdown over receiving an email from the Office of Personnel Management (by way of Elon Musk's DOGE) asking them to reply with five things they accomplished in the previous week. Will the rest of America sympathize with their panic over having to justify their "jobs for life"?
Friday, February 14th, 2025Today, the federal prosecutor handling Eric Adams' case has offered her resignation in protest of Emil Bove ordering her to drop the charges; RFK Jr has been confirmed by the Senate to destroy the health of Americans; the Office of Personnel Management has ordered agencies to fire all probationary employees; the secretary of the VA Doug Collins has ordered all pride flags removed from facilities; the Kansas governor has vetoed a ban on gender affirming care for minors; the fork in the road deferred resignation program has officially ended (the steps); feds have seized $80M of FEMA aid appropriated to New York; the measles outbreak in Texas was completely preventable; Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has filed suit against the Trump administration over the spending freeze on grants and loans; and Allison and delivers your Good News.Guest: John FugelsangTell Me Everything - John FugelsangThe John Fugelsang PodcastSiriusXM ProgressThe Sexy Liberal Save The World Comedy TourSexy LiberalThank You AG1New AG1 subscribers: Go to drinkAG1.com/dailybeans for a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You'll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box. Thank You Helix27% Off Sitewide + 2 Free Dream Pillows + a Free Bedding Bundle with any Luxe or Elite Mattress Order when you go to HelixSleep.com/dailybeans.Stories:Federal prosecutors in New York and Washington resign after refusing to drop Adams charges - Tom Winter, Jonathan Dienst, Ryan J. Reilly and Laura Jarrett | NBC NewsFeds seized $80 million in FEMA funds given to NYC to house migrants, city comptroller says - Jennifer Bisram | CBS New YorkMeasles outbreak in Texas was "completely preventable," infectious disease expert says - Sara Moniuszko, David Higgins | CBS NewsPennsylvania governor sues over Trump administration spending freeze on grants, loans - Marc Levy | ABC NewsKansas governor vetoes gender-affirming care ban for minors; Republicans ready for override - ANNA KAMINSKI | Kansas ReflectorGood Trouble:VA Pride Flags - by Allison GillFederal workers - feel free to email me at fedoath@pm.me and let me know what you're going to do, or just vent. I'm always here to listen. Check out muellershewrote.com for my interview with a systems security expert about the massive breach at opm.gov caused by Elon MuskFrom The Good NewsStriking Providence Oregon nurses reject tentative deal in voteSeattle Chapter – Sonic GuildThe Sonic Guild Grant Celebration @ Mainstage Theatre - Feb 22, 2025, 7:30PMShart Tank - PodcastSeattle Humane SocietyAdopt Chuckie Cheese!Reminder - you can see the pod pics if you become a Patron. The good news pics are at the bottom of the show notes of each Patreon episode! That's just one of the perks of subscribing! Check out other MSW Media podcastshttps://mswmedia.com/shows/Subscribe for free to MuellerSheWrote on Substackhttps://muellershewrote.substack.comFollow AG and Dana on Social MediaDr. Allison Gill Substack|Muellershewrote, Twitter|@MuellerSheWrote, Threads|@muellershewrote, TikTok|@muellershewrote, IG|muellershewrote, BlueSky|@muellershewroteDana GoldbergTwitter|@DGComedy, IG|dgcomedy, facebook|dgcomedy, IG|dgcomedy, danagoldberg.com, BlueSky|@dgcomedyHave some good news; a confession; or a correction to share?Good News & Confessions - The Daily Beanshttps://www.dailybeanspod.com/confessional/ Listener Survey:http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=shortFollow the Podcast on Apple:The Daily Beans on Apple PodcastsWant to support the show and get it ad-free and early?Supercasthttps://dailybeans.supercast.com/Patreon https://patreon.com/thedailybeansOr subscribe on Apple Podcasts with our affiliate linkThe Daily Beans on Apple Podcasts