Pay & Benefits
Would seek to align federal pay with that of workers in the private sector, who make as much as 30 percent to 40 percent less when benefits are taken into account, according to the campaign. Has signaled support for the concept of pay-for-performance. Running mate Paul Ryan’s fiscal 2013 budget would freeze federal pay through 2015 and make federal employees contribute more toward their retirements.
Workforce
Supports a 10 percent reduction in the federal workforce, mainly through attrition.
Budget
Would cap federal spending at 20 percent of gross domestic product, and achieve a balanced budget. This would be accomplished by cutting non-security discretionary spending. Defense spending would increase. Would repeal the 2010 Affordable Care Act, which he argues has added billions to the budget deficit.
Transparency & Ethics
Has not come out with a policy to promote transparency. During Romney’s tenure managing the 2002 Olympic Games at Salt Lake City, officials allegedly were routinely denied documentation, and still are being denied paperwork. Running mate Ryan has come out in favor of open-government, and has an active social media presence.
Contracting
During the primaries, pledged to “cut extraneous federal contractors.”
Government Reform
Has pledged to consolidate and eliminate departments, though he has not offered specifics. Wants to eliminate federal funding for Amtrak, the Public Broadcasting Service and the National Endowment for the Arts. Would review and eliminate Obama regulations that “unduly burden the economy,” limit agency spending on regulations and require congressional approval of all new “major” rules.
Defense
Wants to set core defense spending at a floor of 4 percent of GDP. Has spoken out against the potential defense sequester, and has argued that savings from any budget cuts or new efficiencies should be channeled back into national security funds.
Technology
Would build a fence along the U.S-Mexican border to enhance security and prevent illegal immigration. Supports an increase in federal money for basic research, especially in “energy, materials science and nanotechnology and transportation.” Outlined concerns on cybersecurity and espionage in an October 2011 white paper.