Question about Pork Barrel Spending/Bills

So it seems to be a big issue whenever these bills get passed there are 100's of million if not billions of dollars for Moose in Alaska, Bear hibernation studies, bridges to nowhere, etc. My question is...why not change the way bills are written. For example: You can only request money for things that are under the same topic..war in Iraq goes with War in Iraq, energy goes with energy etc.

Re: Question about Pork Barrel Spending/Bills

I think because then nothing would get done in this country. I think half of those "extras" are to ensure votes from various senators and congressmen - if they vote for your bill, what are you going to "give" them.

Plus I don't think most of the "extra" stuff would pass if it stood alone, so it gets bundled in with other things that more people are likely to vote for.

Re: Question about Pork Barrel Spending/Bills

Re: Question about Pork Barrel Spending/Bills

I know why they do it ("they" being the ones who get the money for the causes that interest their people, therefor ensuring they keep their seat b/c they're going back saying to their voters, "Hey! Look what i go you while i was in office").. BUT.... I honestly don't understand how that's not considered some form of bribery.. or blackmail... HOW is buying votes an acceptable practice? Our system of govt sucks... i wish they'd just junk it all and try a different route.