Here at The Western Word, I’ve followed the earmark issue for a number of years. In the last few years the spending in Congress has gotten out of control. Sure, the GOP spent a lot of money prior to the Democratic take-over of Congress in 2007, but nothing compares to what the Democrats have spent since then.

I think it’s important to cut the spending and saving about $15 – $20 billion per year from earmarks is a good start.

In the past, politicians sending out press releases touting the amount of money they obtained through earmarks was a way for them to show their clout in Washington. Today that same press release will be frowned upon because frankly we don’t have the money – it’s like we are maxing out our credit cards and our credit is about shot.

Most people in Montana want to see earmarks banned. There have been a few polls (not scientific) in local newspapers across the state where 70-80% of those responding said they wanted to see a ban on earmarks.

Congressman Denny Rehberg got the message. Senators Max Baucus and Jon Tester have not.

I smiled when I discovered that Taxpayers Against Earmarks has launched a new interactive website about earmarks. Constituents across the country can use this handy tool when they meet their elected officials.

According to this STORY in Politico: Continue reading →