Horizon cutting-room links: 8 October 2025

"Senate Confirms First OFPP Administrator Since 2019," Federal News Network

The Senate has confirmed Kevin Rhodes as the first permanent administrator of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) since 2019, marking a significant moment in federal procurement reform. Rhodes, a senior adviser to OMB, has a history of leadership and is expected to spearhead efforts to modernize federal acquisition processes.

• Kevin Rhodes is the first permanent OFPP administrator in over six years, succeeding Michael Wooten, who served for eighteen months starting in 2019, and Anne Rung, who left in 2016.
• During his nomination hearing, Rhodes emphasized the need to reduce costs, increase speed, and enhance competition in federal procurement, with a specific aim to support small businesses and innovative companies.
• The Senate's approval comes as the OFPP and the Federal Acquisition Regulatory Council finalize a major overhaul of the FAR, aiming to improve procurement efficiency and effectiveness across federal agencies.

"Bisignano to Lead IRS in Addition to SSA Duties, Raising Questions About the Senate Confirmation Process," Government Executive

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has appointed Frank Bisignano, the current Social Security Commissioner, to a newly created CEO position at IRS, raising questions about his ability to effectively manage both roles and the potential implications for data privacy and government efficiency.

• Frank Bisignano will oversee daily operations at the IRS while continuing his responsibilities at SSA, prompting concerns about divided attention and effectiveness in both roles.
• Critics, including Kathleen Romig from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, argue this appointment is an attempt to bypass Senate confirmation and could hinder proper governance of IRS.
• The appointment has raised alarms regarding data privacy, as it consolidates control over sensitive information from both IRS and SSA, potentially facilitating increased surveillance of undocumented immigrants.

"F-35 Engine Production Contract Slips to Spring 2026," Air & Space Forces Magazine

The production contracts for the F-35's F135 engines have been postponed to spring 2026, as revealed by the Joint Program Office.

• The finalized contracts for Lots 18 and 19 of the F135 engines are delayed by six months, with the Joint Program Office indicating a new timeline for spring 2026.
• Deliveries of F135 engines have consistently been late, with an average delay of 238 days reported in 2024, prompting GAO to suggest that the current incentive structure may need revision.
• The recent contracts for F-35 airframes amount to over $24 billion, but the engine contracts remain crucial for understanding the total cost implications of the F-35 program.

"This Program Rescued Army Recruiting," New York Times

In a time when recruitment for the Army faced significant challenges, a new program has emerged as a pivotal solution, demonstrating the power of innovative strategies in revitalizing military enlistment. This article explores the transformative impact of the program, highlighting its effectiveness in attracting new recruits and reshaping perceptions of military service.

• The program has successfully increased Army recruitment numbers by leveraging targeted outreach and engagement strategies, addressing the specific concerns and interests of potential recruits.
• It highlights the importance of adapting recruitment methods to align with the values and expectations of younger generations, emphasizing technology and social media as key tools in modern enlistment efforts.
• The initiative is part of a larger trend within DOD to modernize and rethink military outreach, aiming to create a more inclusive and appealing image of military service to a diverse population.