One of the problems Congress has faced over the years is the overwhelming numbers of earmarks in bills.  Earmarks are ways for politicians to get money allocated to his or her district or state without debate or being seen.  These earmarks, also known as “pork”, are embedded into the budget bills and are considered wasteful spending by many politicians and groups.  Earmark reform did not happen until the 110^th and 111^th Congress. Both the House and Senate passed rules to limit the amount of earmarks allowed into a bill.  To make it more transparent the rules also allow reports to be released to the public on earmarks and who sponsored it. The video below address the problem of earmarks. The Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs is debating the question on pork spending and why it should be limited. Representative Jeff Flake gives us an insight on how earmarks get into bills and why they are a waste of government money.