The Road Ahead: Defense

Congressional staffers watch a Harrier jet at Marine Day. The military will face increasing budget pressures in the 111th Congress.

Video: Key Lobbying, Policy, Political Issues Facing Defense Agenda

September 25, 2008

Runaway Costs Put Procurement Reform on 111th Congress Agenda

September 25, 2008

Concern on Capitol Hill and at the Pentagon over the soaring cost of building new weapons has spawned yet another movement to overhaul how the Defense Department develops and buys its equipment.

Military Lobbyists Feel Pressure of Pinched Budgets

September 25, 2008

With troop strength in Iraq likely falling, an ongoing war in Afghanistan and once-bountiful earmarks now coming under heightened scrutiny, the defense industry will certainly have its hands full next Congress.

A West Point Grad and Go-To Senator

September 25, 2008

Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.) is a “ring knocker.”
Among the military, the term is slang for a service academy graduate, a play on the oversized class rings they wear as badges of honor.

Obama Wants to Bolster Recruitment, Move Military Into 21st Century

September 25, 2008

When it comes to defense, Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama is most often cited for having opposed the war in Iraq from the start. Beyond that, the Senator from Illinois has little defense experience, but that hasn’t stopped him from mapping out an extensive plan to implement if elected.

Former Military Man McCain a Big Advocate of Procurement Reform

September 25, 2008

National defense is Republican presidential nominee John McCain’s area of expertise on every level.
The Arizona Senator’s personal experience as the son and grandson of admirals and as a prisoner of war for five and a half years in Vietnam is difficult to challenge.