Emerging Tech
Energy expects Genesis Mission will double R&D productivity in coming decade
Department of Energy forecasts major scientific productivity and impact gains with the Genesis Mission, while also aiming to redefine artificial intelligence’s purpose.
Exclusive
Cybersecurity
Hackers breached DHS information-sharing network, people familiar say
The Homeland Security Information Network is used by government, international and private sector partners to share sensitive but unclassified information.
People
Pentagon launches ‘War Force’ initiative to onboard tech talent
The new recruitment effort was started in partnership with the Office of Personnel Management and operates under that agency’s larger Tech Force program.
People
Lawmaker warns of administration’s ‘fetishization’ of Silicon Valley startups
Rep. James Walkinshaw, D-Va., discussed his plans to scrutinize Trump-era contracting practices, revive federal IT oversight and push for AI policy.
Digital Government
America at 250: What the Census reveals about our journey
As the United States approaches its 250th birthday, the Census Bureau offers a vivid way to trace the country’s growth, movement and change from the earliest days of the republic.
Policy
Tech bills of the week: Labeling AI-generated content; AI standards for private sector companies; and more
This week’s proposals include a measure to create a reporting process for dangerous AI systems and legislation to collect data on AI’s impact on the U.S. workforce.
Artificial Intelligence
OpenAI releases new GPT-5.6 model to select partners
The approach is similar to Anthropic’s Project Glasswing and follows a Trump administration request that the company limit access.
Cybersecurity
Secret Service phone security lapses put US officials at risk, watchdog says
The DHS inspector general found that agents routinely used personal phones for official work, including during protective operations, because government-issued devices lacked key capabilities.
Acquisition
GSA taking measured approach to SEWP takeover
Continuity is the General Services Administration's top priority as it embeds staff in NASA’s SEWP office to lay groundwork to transfer the $60 billion IT vehicle.
Acquisition
GSA’s centralization push is a return to its roots, not just a Trump priority
The General Services Administration's acting acquisition chief says the consolidation drive mirrors the founding mission laid out by the Hoover Commission 77 years ago.
Artificial Intelligence
AI has helped to slash nuclear licensing review times, NRC official says
Some reviews that once took four years to complete are done in nine months, NRC Chief Data Officer and Deputy Chief AI Officer Basia Sall said on Thursday.
Ideas
Stop automating inefficiency and scale AI the right way
COMMENTARY | Four operational realities that agencies must address before AI can deliver mission impact at scale.
Artificial Intelligence
Agencies look to AI to improve hiring and build workforce skills
The chief human capital officers also emphasized the importance of improving the skillset of the mid-career workforce.
Emerging Tech
OMB issues instructions for agency migration to quantum-proof encryption
Agencies are expected to undertake two actions in service of enhanced security: execute a phased migration of cryptographic systems to prepare for quantum computing risk; and submit a PQC migration plan to OMB.
Cybersecurity
The hidden market turning home internet connections into cover for hackers
Researchers traced millions of household IP addresses through residential proxy networks, calling the illicit use of those connections the “blood diamonds of the digital age.”
People
ODNI deputy director pushed out amid Pulte cuts
An estimated 15 to 20 individuals who were assigned to the Mission Integration directorate from other intelligence community components are believed to have returned to their respective agencies.
Defense
DOD quantum strategy ‘a first step’ in preparing for the future, CIO says
Pentagon Chief Information Officer Kirsten Davies said the department’s new post-quantum cryptography strategy is only one component of ensuring its operations “are robust and ready in an increasingly unpredictable world.”
People
Sean Gallagher selected as NASA CIO
Having served as acting chief information officer since January, Gallagher’s permanent appointment is “effective immediately,” the agency said.
Emerging Tech
Senator plans to propose quantum initiative reauthorization as part of NDAA
Both the House and Senate are currently considering versions of the bill that would reauthorize and expand upon efforts to invest in U.S. quantum development.
People