Republican candidate Mariannette Miller-Meeks called on Rep. David
Loebsack to serve his constituents and reform the congressional
practice of behind-closed-doors budget earmarks that continue to drive
the cost of government higher. On Thursday, the nonprofit, nonpartisan
Citizens Against Government Waste reported that Congress approved more
than 11,000 earmarks that added $17.2 billion to this year's federal
budget. Those projects were deemed "pork barrel projects" by the group
if they met one of seven criteria: a request by just one member of
Congress; no specific authorization; no competitive award; no
presidential request; a greatly increased budget amount compared with
the previous year; serving only a local or special interest; or no
congressional hearing.

Labels: Dave Loebsack