Congressman Flake Praises Earmark Reform Legislation
Democrats to Introduce Bill to Decouple Earmarks and Campaign Contributions
Washington, D.C.,
Apr 22 -
Republican Congressman Jeff Flake, who represents Arizona’s Sixth District, today applauded legislation aimed at decoupling earmarks from campaign contributions.
Congressman Paul Hodes of New Hampshire and Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords of Arizona, both Democrats, today announced their intention to introduce the bill.
“No Member of Congress should be able to award no-bid contracts - which is what many earmarks are - to private companies or other institutions, particularly those whose executives and lobbyists turn around and write campaign checks to that Member,” said Flake.
“Earmarks aren’t a Democratic problem or a Republican problem. They are a problem that infects the entire Congress.”
“I don’t care if the House moves Democratic legislation or Republic legislation, as long as the problem is addressed. And I think this earmark reform bill is a promising development.”
Congressman Flake also introduced legislation in January that would prohibit Members of Congress from receiving campaign contributions from earmark recipients. Members are currently prohibited from seeking earmarks in which they have a “financial interest.” H.Res.85 would amend House Rules to expand the definition of “financial interest” to include campaign contributions.
