Federal spending in district states has increased significantly since the early 1990s.

Earmarks are easy to want, easier to criticize. Though inefficient at a number of levels, the political economy of pork barrel spending suggests some benefits are also ignored.

Earmarks are plentiful in the Ninth District and vary widely.

Earmarks can meet local needs; they can also leave locals hanging

Opinion polls show a big gap between the public's desire for services and its willingness to pay for those services

Persistent budget shortfalls have created subtle spending shifts and a kitchen-sink mentality to close budget gaps without cutting services

State and local government spending has steadily increased across the district, and states have unique spending priorities

Ninth Federal Reserve District 2009 Economic Forecast