The Trump Administration Paradigm Shift: Managing Through Cuts, Cancellations, and Changes in 2025

Dcode hosted two national security experts - Alexis Prieur L’Heureux of WestExec Advisors and Stephen Rodriguez of One Defense – to discuss the impact of Trump Administration policy shifts on industry working in the federal space, with a focus on practical action. Watch the entire conversation below! Key points include:

• Transition and Uncertainty: The government is in a transition phase with hesitance to meet with outside actors due to uncertainty about program and contract fates.

• Budgetary Shifts: Some areas are seeing budget acceleration (technology, new entrants), while others are slowing (consultants, legacy programs) amidst a continuing resolution.

• Strategic Priorities: Companies should align their strategies with administration priorities like border security, space force, AI, and supply chain resilience.

• Software-Defined Warfare: A key focus area is software-defined warfare, emphasizing software integration, software-first product development, and enhancing the digital enterprise.

• Innovation Hubs: The discussion touched on the changing landscape of innovation hubs and alternative pathways for companies to engage with the government.

• Contracting Challenges: The continuing resolution creates challenges for contract timing and structure, with advice to focus on operation and maintenance funds and cost-saving solutions.

• “Four Ms”: Stephen Rodriguez introduced the "Four Ms" (Money, Mission, Motivation, Mechanism) as a framework for engaging with government customers.

• Regulation: The potential impact of scaling back regulations on innovators was discussed, including both potential benefits and challenges.

• GSA Role: The increasing role of GSA in government procurement was mentioned, with considerations for contractors on compliance and subcontracting.