On this special edition of Fed Gov Today with Francis Rose, the federal government shutdown officially begins — and with it come questions about what’s closed, what’s open, and what federal leaders can do to prepare for the return to business. Former Undersecretary of Defense Comptroller Mike McCord and Gov Navigators CEO Robert Shea, a former OMB leader, discuss the immediate impacts on agencies, employees, and taxpayers, and why communication and leadership are more critical than ever. Former GSA leaders Sonny Hashmi and Jim Williams join Francis to examine the operational realities of a shutdown, from cybersecurity and acquisition backlogs to the challenges of keeping federal missions on track with reduced staff and resources. Together, they unpack the human, managerial, and operational toll of a shutdown — and the lessons leaders must apply to navigate the crisis and prepare for what comes next.

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