Un-substantiated Earmarks

Pop Quiz: Who said the following during the 2006 Gubernatorial Election?

"Legislative earmarks have grown. While some represent legitimate efforts, many have resulted in an ineffective distribution of government resources. The 2006 budget contained 747 earmarks (approximately $408 million), up from 517 earmarks (worth $340 million) four years ago – and compared to 179 earmarks ($208 million) in a similar budget structure fifteen years ago. Therefore earmark spending has increased by 20% in four years and almost doubled in fifteen years.

I will veto unsubstantiated earmarks. I will also work with the Legislature to cap earmark spending at a fixed dollar amount annually. Over time, the earmark cap would be reduced, forcing earmark spending to be pushed into the appropriate line items within the budget, and back into the mainstream of the state’s budget process. I believe this discipline alone can save the Commonwealth $100 million in the first year, and even more over time. "

Was it:

A.) Kerry Healey
B.) Deval Patrick
C.) Tom Riley
D.) Chris Gabrielli


Yes, it's B, Governor Elect Deval Patrick. So how is a $100,000 gazebo in Braintree anything BUT an 'un-substantiated earmark'? If it isn't, then what is? I suppose nothing says 'together we can' like 'free' Gazebos for everyone!