The most interesting thing about working for a government agency is how much like a normal workplace it is.  You have problems with supplies, turnover, morale, pay, opportunities for advancement.  Oh, and politics.  LORD, oh yes, the politics.  Which is what you would expect.  The interesting problem is how often you have to get support for an idea -- not only from your bosses, but also your underlings, your peers, and any outside groups (like other agencies) that might be affected.  It's a lot like doing an issue campaign at the grassroots level.  Except you get a more steady paycheck and a lot of cool benefits.  -0608 EST, 11/15/08

CoxReport has been re-born.  Updates to follow.  -0545 EST, 11/15/08