Earmarking is a hot topic these days for the debates, but the reality is the system is built to sustain earmarking, as the process allows members of Congress to provide for their districts. Those who provide the most pork for their districts are rewarded with reelection.  That's how the game is played. Just don't get caught talking about earmarks publicly; that would make you a political liability.

The video below shows just how touchy a topic earmarks have become.  Watch as Rep. Stephanie Tubbs-Jones (D-OH), the House Ethics Committee Chairwoman, squirms and turns aggressive as the reporter tries to get her on the record about a $2 million earmark benefiting the paint company Sherwin Williams. 

Click here for the video.