'Prince of Pork' Hal Rogers Will Chair House Appropriations Committee

[sabra]

Source: ABC News

House Republics Today Appointed Rogers to Chair Influential Committee

In a year when spending is scrutinized and the budget is used as a political football, House Republicans have raised eyebrows by appointing pork-heavy Rep. Hal Rogers to chair the House Appropriations Committee.

Rogers, of Kentucky, has been the front-runner for the spot, despite a reputation for funneling taxpayer money into his own district that has earned him the nickname "Prince of Pork."

In two years, Rogers pushed through 135 earmarks worth $246 million. He's brought tens of millions of dollars into his hometown of Somerset, Ky., so much so that the town has been dubbed "Mr. Rogers' neighborhood."

There's the $52 million National Center for Hometown Security and the tiny airport that received $17 million in federal dollars but has so little traffic that the last commercial airline pulled out in February.

There's also the Hal Rogers Parkway, which was formerly known as the Daniel Boone Parkway before being renamed for the 16-term congressman.

More recently, Rogers was able to secure $5 million dollars for conservation groups that work with wild cats. Among the organizations that could benefit from the money is the Namibia-based Cheetah Conservation Fund, which employs Rogers' daughter.

Read more: http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/house-gop-appoints-prince-pork-hal-rogers-chair/story?id=12343673

[smiley]

1. such hypocrisy it makes me sick

:puke:

[KT2000]

2. Rubbing it in American's faces

and still so many people are not getting it. They will continue to elect those who serve themselves and their wealthy friends.

[Nihil]

5. Two sentences that contain worlds of truth. Well done. (n/t)

:toast:

[KT2000]

7. Thanks!

:toast:

[bergie321]

3. But...but...

Republicans passed a no earmarks promise with a non-binding voice vote so I am sure they are serious about it this time...

(:sarcasm:)

[SalmonChantedEvening]

4. Bet he was a Teabagger favorite.

:rofl:

[JCMach1]

6. More dirty details here

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x9731878