Pay & Benefits
Ordered a two-year pay freeze for civilians starting in 2011; a 0.5 percent raise in 2013 will be contingent upon Congress passing a budget. Extended some benefits to the same-sex partners of federal employees, though he is prohibited by law from offering full benefits. Proposed increasing pension contributions.
Workforce
Directed agencies to hire more veterans and disabled employees. The Democratic platform notes his commitment to hiring 100,000 Americans with disabilities by 2015, and to encouraging contractors to move in the same direction. Overturned the Don’t Ask Don’t Tell policy, which prohibited gays and lesbians from openly serving in the military. Has not stated any plans to reduce the workforce through attrition.
Budget
The Democratic platform touts $2 trillion in spending reductions “as part of a balanced plan to reduce our deficits by over $4 trillion over the next decade.” During his speech accepting the nomination, pledged to use money “we’re no longer spending on war” to pay down debt and create jobs. Would like to reach a deal to stave off sequestration, but is prepared to implement the automatic cuts if that doesn’t happen.
Transparency & Ethics
Signed an executive order shortly after taking office with a series of ethics rules for agency appointees. In March 2012, launched Ethics.gov, a website that lists White House visitor logs, lobbying information and other data. Other websites including Recovery.gov and Data.gov allow visitors to follow government spending.
Contracting
Early on in his term, announced a contracting overhaul to reduce overhead costs and increase competition. Pledged to end unnecessary no-bid contracts and cost-plus deals, moves the administration said would save taxpayers $40 billion annually.
Government Reform
Sought consolidation authority from Congress to combine trade and business agencies. Initiated the Campaign to Cut Waste, to ensure efficient use of taxpayer dollars. Said in his acceptance speech that “those of us who believe government can be a force for good should work harder than anyone to reform it, so that it’s leaner, more efficient, and more responsive to the American people.”
Defense
Drew down troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, and pivoted toward Asia. Increased use of unmanned aerial drones. Would decrease defense spending and devote money that would have gone toward the wars to domestic nation-building efforts.
Technology
Appointed the nation’s first official federal chief information officer to help promote e-government and open data. Has encouraged uploading of data to a series of government sites, and the “Apps for Democracy” program. Additionally, cybersecurity became a leading issue. Also has encouraged cloud computing throughout federal agencies, announcing the initiative in September 2009, and has sought to consolidate data centers and eliminate obsolete websites. Released a digital strategy.