January 10, 2017

Senate Republican Conference
U.S. Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Senator,

You will soon consider the rules for the Republican Conference in the 115th Congress.  On behalf of the more than one million members and supporters of the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste (CCAGW), I urge you to support Sen. Jeff Flake’s (R-Ariz.) amendment to extend the earmark moratorium by prohibiting Senators from requesting a congressional directed spending item, limited tax benefit, or limited tariff benefit.  I also urge you to oppose any second degree amendments that may weaken the existing moratorium. 

A vote to resurrect earmarks in any manner whatsoever would be a direct repudiation to the voters who preserved the Republican majority in the Senate.  It would also increase spending and the nearly $20 trillion in debt, while degrading the legislative process.  Republicans do not need earmarks to accomplish conservative objectives.  Indeed, the moratorium should be made permanent, rather than having to be renewed every two years.  

I urge you to support Sen. Flake’s amendment in order to maintain the moratorium.

Sincerely, 

Tom Schatz
President, CCAGW