The Three Big Mistakes in the 2020 Plum Book For most people, the only way to find out who is serving in the top decision-making positions in government is to reference the 2020 Plum Book. Unfortunately, this document has significant procedural and factual problems and could be greatly improved. Read More
Improving the Plum Book: The Need to Modernize Information about Federal Leadership The Plum Book is the most comprehensive source about officials serving in the federal government. It contains information on more than 4,000 political appointees–1,200 of whom are subject to Senate confirmation–along with thousands of other jobs filled by senior career officials in the federal civil service. Unfortunately, the Plum Book has been produced largely the same way since 1952, and should be modernized to provide greater transparency and accountability. Read More
I Was Offered a Political Appointment—How Much Will I Be Paid? Being offered a political appointment can be an opportunity to serve the public and the president, do meaningful work and make a difference. But after the excitement fades, it is time to get into the details, including one of the most important considerations for many people—the pay. Read More
Seeking a political appointment: Seven tips from a former special assistant to the president for presidential personnel You want to join an administration as a political appointee, but you don’t know where to start. You are not alone. Here are some tips that will give you a leg up. Read More
Presidential transition teams need accurate data to fill federal jobs The 2020 presidential campaign is well underway as the first primaries and caucuses rapidly approach. Soon, presidential hopefuls will need to assemble a team to plan a transition — either to a new administration or a second term. Read More