Not to nit-pick, but since this IS the media and they claim to know all, the term "spendthrift" refers to someone who 'spends thriftily' as in is fiscally conscientious. The word the author is looking for is "wastrel", one who 'wastes'. Perhaps a little better fact checking next time may help, Trib?
American Heritage: "One who squanders wealth". [SPEND + THRIFT (accumulated wealth).