I'm not so sure, this is an incredible amount of power to give someone in a newly created position who doesn't even have to be confirmed. I fully expect US data and software to begin flowing to foreign governments at a torrid pace.
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 5, 2009
President Obama Names Vivek Kundra Chief Information Officer
WASHINGTON, DC - Today, President Barack Obama named Vivek Kundra the Federal Chief Information Officer (CIO) at the White House.
The Federal Chief Information Officer directs the policy and strategic planning of federal information technology investments and is responsible for oversight of federal technology spending. The Federal CIO establishes and oversees enterprise architecture to ensure system interoperability and information sharing and ensure information security and privacy across the federal government. The CIO will also work closely with the Chief Technology Officer to advance the President's technology agenda.
President Obama said, "Vivek Kundra will bring a depth of experience in the technology arena and a commitment to lowering the cost of government operations to this position. I have directed him to work to ensure that we are using the spirit of American innovation and the power of technology to improve performance and lower the cost of government operations. As Chief Information Officer, he will play a key role in making sure our government is running in the most secure, open, and efficient way possible."
Data can’t even flow between agencies . . .US government Applications Software reflect US regulations and laws.....Is there someone who wants 15 yr old outdated Software ?
Guy is 34 and Obama says he brings “breadth of experience”
That does sound like the level of post that needs to be confirmed. I also heard this guy is in love with Google, and even pimps for them, so we can't expect much of a neutral policy. Obama might have to write up yet another ethics policy waiver for this guy.
BTW, do you have any idea what percentage of Obama's picks required waivers from his supposed ethics policy? I'd love to know that number.