The Ethics of Earmarks

Seantor John McCain of Arizona, a former presidential nominee for the Republican party, has conducted a conference call-in with reporters to help fellow Republican, Dino Rossi.  Dino Rossi is running a close race against Patty Murray, a veteran Senator and fighting incumbent.  One of the main points of Rossi's campaign is showcasing Murray's use of the earmark.  An "earmark" is a special amount of money set aside for projects in a particular senator's state.  Usually, these projects benefit local, not national, interests, and are frowned upon by many.  However, Patty Murray defends her use of earmarks, saying it helps Washington state (which it does.)  Dino Rossi is opposed to the use of earmarks until after our national budget is balanced (since they can be costly.)  John McCain is very set against the use of earmarks, balanced budget or not, and his support of Dino Rossi's disdain will perhaps help Rossi win over voters.

"McCain calls in support of Dino Rossi for Wash.." News Tribune (2010): n. pag. Web. 25 Oct 2010. <http://www.thenewstribune.com/2010/10/25/1395672/sen-mccain-calls-in-support-for.html>.