Free Republic

WASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump’s stated plans to tee up the firings of thousands of federal employees has shaken many in the career workforce and is damaging productivity, the Pentagon’s chief accountant warned today.Mike McCord, the Pentagon comptroller, also predicted the current continuing resolution would stretch until March and the fiscal 2026 budget will not arrive before April or May.Near the end of his first term in office, Trump signed an executive order reclassifying thousands of government employees — often the type who typically remain in place regardless of presidential administration — as new “Schedule F” staff without employment protections,...

Ministers hope a relaxation of U.K. gambling law announced Tuesday will revitalize slumping seaside resorts, but some religious groups say the reforms will create new problems for British society. Under the new rules, casinos will be able to provide live music and entertainment, a waiting period for gamblers will be scrapped, and patrons will be able to enjoy a drink while wagering at gaming tables. The government also plans to make it easier to open casinos and will scrap restrictions on the number of casinos in a particular area, the number of games offered and the value of prize jackpots....