Walker was most dire in his warning that the Department
of Defense, long a prominent member of GAO’s high-risk
list, is unable to ensure that the over $200 billion
it spends each year is used wisely and results in
weapons systems and capabilities as promised, or that
its business practices and fees paid to contractors
result in good acquisition outcomes.
He said the Postal Service, while it has made
significant progress addressing transformation
challenges, continues to face difficulty with declining
mail volumes and an unsustainable business model.
Sweeping postal reform legislation is back on the
calendar this year after falling apart last year over
disagreements concerning pension funding and rate setting.
Walker also emphasized DHS’s continuing challenges with
strategic planning, information sharing, disaster
management and partnering.