GAO's 100th Anniversary
2021 marked the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Government Accountability Office. For over a century, the independent, non-partisan “congressional watchdog” has been overseeing how the federal government operates and spends its money—pointing out where it is doing well and where it can improve. Over the years, GAO has made thousands of recommendations based on facts to improve services and save taxpayers billions of dollars.
Formerly known as the General Accounting Office, the agency has become a trusted, non-partisan advisor to Congress, a proud defender of public interest, and a leading advocate for better government. From cybersecurity to social security, missiles to Medicaid, and foreign policy to public health policy and the global pandemic, GAO works to hold government programs accountable to all Americans.
Comptroller General Interviews
For GAO's centennial celebration, we were honored to be able to interview the three most recent Comptrollers General of the United States and heads of the GAO. Their first-hand accounts of GAO's last 40 years are a piece of agency history. The full interviews are available below for you to watch.
Interview with Chuck Bowsher, Comptroller General of the United States, 1981-1996
Former Comptroller General Chuck Bowsher (1981-1996) shares his experiences leading GAO.
Interview with David Walker, Comptroller General of the United States, 1998-2008
Former Comptroller General David Walker (1998-2008) shares his experiences leading GAO.
Interview with Gene Dodaro, Comptroller General of the United States, 2010-present
Current Comptroller General Gene Dodaro (2010-present) shares his experiences leading GAO.
Anniversary Events
Read more about the events we hosted in 2021 to celebrate our anniversary.