The Hill & Valley Forum Podcast Senator Joni Ernst, Keith Rabois, and Ramp CEO Eric Glyman | First Principles for Smarter, Leaner Government
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May 3, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Senator Joni Ernst, a U.S. Senator focused on government efficiency, teams up with Eric Glyman, CEO of Ramp, a finance automation platform, and tech leader Keith Rabois. They explore the shocking misuse of taxpayer funds, tackling issues like federal payment tracking failures and remote work abuse. Ernst highlights the need for adopting advanced commercial technologies to enhance efficiency, while Glyman reveals how modern financial systems can prevent inappropriate spending. Together, they envision a smarter, leaner government that saves taxpayer dollars.
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Flawed Federal Payment Tracking
- Approximately 95% of federal payments go through Treasury without proper tracking or auditability.
- Requiring descriptions for federal payments improves transparency and prevents errors like double payments.
Government Lacks Basic Accounting
- The federal government lacks basic accounting principles seen in private industry, resulting in unsustainable financial practices.
- Government financial systems would not survive commercial audits, indicating a need for modern reforms.
GSA Credit Card Misuse Highlighted
- There are 4.6 million GSA credit cards but only about half as many federal employees, indicating misuse.
- Thousands of inappropriate charges occur at casinos, federal holidays, and non-official venues warranting investigation.