[The_Victor]

In other words, Mr. Paul opposes the type of legislation that allows for the inclusion of these earmarks, yet acknowledges that in the face of a federal government sadly keen on spending, his district deserves the same treatment as others. Considering that extra earmarks do not increase federal spending, he owes this to his constituents.

Funny, the "everyone else is doing it" excuse never played with my parents...

[Bernard]

It may not have played with your parents, but is seems to play with the local papers in my area. Even the conservative ones always start an endorsement editorial with how much government money the incumbent has brought back from the level of government they are involved in.

And then the next day the same paper criticizes the same government for spending too much money. It's almost like a different editorial group takes over and feels no need for consistency.