21 Dec 09: The Senate health bill is filled with monetary allocations for earmarks that have nothing to do with health care. When a reporter asked Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid about the abundance of “pork” in the bill, Reid responded that this bill was no different from a defense bill or any other bill. He stated that if a Senator does not put something in the bill that he wants, then “he’s not a good Senator.” Apparently, you are a “good Senator” if you get your “pet projects” inserted into a bill. No wonder spending is out of control!
I recognize the importance of bringing jobs into the local economy. I also recognize the importance of fiscal restraint. There must be a balance between the needs of the state and the needs of the country.