Last week I blogged about the Flake/Campbell amendment to the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Bill, however there were other amendments that are worthy of mention.
Congressman Michael McCaul (R-TX), offered an amendment that would prohibit the use of federal funds for a “Monument to Me” for any Member of Congress.
Thankfully, the amendment passed. Here is a list of some of the most egregious examples:
- Robert C. Byrd Center for Hospitality and Tourism
- Robert C. Byrd addition to the lodge at Oglebay Park, Wheeling
- Robert C. Byrd Hilltop Office Complex
- Ted Stevens International Airport, Anchorage
- Harkin Grants: A grant program for local school remodeling in Iowa
- Harkin Wellness Grants: A grant program for promoting healthy lifestyles in Iowa
- Thomas R. Harkin Global Communications Center (CDC building)
- Arlen Specter Headquarters and Emergency Operations Center (CDC building)
- Mitch McConnell Park in Bowling Green, KY
- John D. Dingell Drive, which allows access to the new airport terminal at Detroit Metro
- Cynthia McKinney Parkway in Atlanta
- Jack Murtha Highway
- James E. Clyburn Golf Center
- James E. Clyburn Pedestrian Overpass
- James E. Clyburn Intermodal Transportation Center
- Charles B. Rangel Center for Public Service at the City College of New York
As you can tell this isn’t just an isolated problem. But rather it is a widespread problem that both parties are engaging in. That’s why I am original cosponsor of H.R. 5771, which will attack this problem head on and eliminate the practice of “Monuments to Me” for good.
This kind of bombastic self promotion with taxpayer dollars must stop.