Director’s Desk

Kristin Nicholson | March 6, 2025

Dear Friends:

First, let me say that we are closely monitoring the rapid changes and uncertainty impacting federal agencies and personnel. We are grateful, as always, for your service and are here to help you understand the changing landscape, and more broadly, to help in any way we can. If you have questions or concerns about upcoming course registrations or would like to discuss training options for your organization, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Uncertainty prevails on Capitol Hill this week as well, as House and Senate leaders grapple with how to avoid a looming government shutdown on March 14. The most likely outcome at this point appears to be a full-year Continuing Resolution through September, but we all know a lot can change in a week around here. For lots more on the full-year CR option, you’ll definitely want to read Senior Fellow Matt Glassman’s piece in our latest newsletter.

We are starting to see some signs that members of Congress are seeking ways to exert their power of the purse when it comes to executive spending authority. That said, the actions of recent weeks are presenting a fundamental test of institutional roles and the separation of powers. We will keep working on our mission that we’ve had since 1965, and through other turbulent times: to explain, analyze and put this moment into historical context for all of you. Let us know how we can help.

All the best,

Kristin

Kristin Nicholson is the Director of the Government Affairs Institute

Categories: Director's Desk, Media Center, Updates