Ron Paul and Harry Reid Agree on the Transfer of Power to the Executive Branch in Earmark Bans

You probably aren't going to see this very often, but it appears Ron Paul and Harry Reid are issuing the same warning on earmarks and executive power. Both as saying if Congress gives up the power of the purse through earmarks, the executive branch will acquire more power.

Here is Ron Paul on earmarks:



Here is Harry Reid on earmarks:



Now while I think Harry Reid is a scoundrel, I do feel it's important to continue to point out the deception of this earmark battle. Like Paul says, earmarks only add up to one percent of the federal budget and wouldn't actually cut a dime of spending or federal debt. As well, it is the duty of Congress to control the purse. Parting with this Congressional responsibility will give the executive branch the power to use this money that is set aside for what the executive branch wants and not what your local representative sees fit to best represent the district.


While I don't approve of all earmarks, I have pointed out how many more millions of dollars are sent to Washington DC in the federal fuel tax (which is supposed to be used to build and maintain roads) compared to how little is actually returned to the states in earmarks. Of course, I would do this different if I had any power to suggest such a thing by ending the federal fuel tax so the money never leaves the state and we don't have to count on a representative to return the money to the state.