First, he was one of a small number of Democrats who voted against Obama's porkulus bill, proposing a much smaller, much more realistic bill. Now he eschews earmarks. From the April 2, 2009 Idaho Statesman:
Rep. Walt Minnick, Idaho's best liaison to the Democratic majority, surprised his colleagues and some Idaho institutions with the news he wouldn't bring federal dollars to his district through the widespread but controversial use of earmarks.Now, it's true that Minnick's actions, alone, won't make any difference in the orgy of irrational spending going on up there, and earmarks are only a tiny part of the problem. But the earmarks are among the least justifiable part of our current budget process. I didn't vote for Minnick, and I am not likely to vote for him in 2010, but I can respect the courage that it takes to say "No" to the special interests that dominate American politics. It's unfortunate that the Republicans that represent Idaho in Congress don't show this same courage.
"We are in scrambling mode," said Marty Peterson, lobbyist for the University of Idaho, which like many public colleges has relied on the practice to pay for some projects and programs.
Minnick said he knew some people would be upset.
"In this tough economic time, we all need to cut back," he said. "I strongly support many of the projects submitted to my office, so I understand why this decision will not be popular with some and that it may meet criticism."
Minnick said he would not push for earmarks - specific spending authority placed in congressional bills - for at least one year. He said he would try to bring money to Idaho by helping businesses and agencies win competitive grants offered in the stimulus package.
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