Instant Insight

30-Second Take

• The federal government is undergoing significant changes with new leadership in the White House and Congress.
• These changes are affecting federal agency operations, including research funding and policy implementations.
• Communication pauses and policy updates are expected as new administrators take office.

Quick Brief

2-Minute Digest

Essential Context

In January 2025, the federal government transitioned to new leadership in both the White House and Congress. This transition has led to a period of adjustment for federal agencies, which are experiencing communication pauses and policy changes.

Core Players

• New White House Administration – Recently appointed leaders and staff.
• Congress – Newly elected and re-elected members influencing policy.
• Federal Agencies – Various departments affected by the transition.
• University Research Institutions – Impacted by changes in research funding and policies.

Key Numbers

• $16 million – Funding for the Global Engagement Center (GEC) in FY-17.
• $19.8 million – Supplemental funding for GEC in FY-18.
• $60 million – Potential annual transfer from the Department of Defense to support GEC activities.
• 30 days – Target date for full compliance with the new in-person work policy for federal agencies.

Full Depth

Complete Coverage

The Catalyst

The recent transition in federal leadership has triggered a series of changes and updates across various government departments and agencies.

This period of transition often results in communication pauses as new administrators are confirmed and policies are revised.

Inside Forces

Federal agencies are currently experiencing delays in decision-making processes, including new funding opportunities, award announcements, and policy updates.

Universities and research institutions are advised to continue following existing guidelines and deadlines for sponsored projects until further notice.

Power Dynamics

The new administration has significant influence over policy changes and funding priorities. This includes shifts in research funding, which can impact universities and research institutions.

The Global Engagement Center (GEC), for instance, has seen expanded mandates to counter state-sponsored propaganda and disinformation.

Outside Impact

The changes within federal agencies have broader implications, such as the impact on scientific research and public diplomacy efforts.

The transition also affects other sectors, including the implementation of new executive orders, such as the return to in-person work policy for federal employees.

Future Forces

Key areas for future change include:

• Research funding priorities – Expected shifts in focus areas for scientific research.
• Policy implementations – New laws and executive orders impacting various sectors.
• Federal agency operations – Continued adjustments as new administrators settle in.
• In-person work policy – Potential long-term effects on federal agency productivity and culture.

Data Points

• January 2025: Transition to new federal leadership begins.
• January 24, 2025: Deadline for federal agencies to revise telework policies.
• 30 days: Target compliance period for the new in-person work policy.
• $19.8 million: Supplemental funding for the Global Engagement Center in FY-18.