Earmark opposition may delay state projects

Senator Jim DeMint and other lawmaker’s opposition to federal earmarks may get in the way of two major projects on South Carolina’s coast. If DeMint and other lawmakers are successful in eliminating federal earmarks, two major projects may soon be affected.

The Sun News of Myrtle Beach reports the earmarks have helped fund dredging at the Georgetown port, as well as Interstate 73 planning. The interstate would link Myrtle Beach to Michigan, but Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce members say so far all of the planning and construction has been funded by earmarks. If they are eliminated, funding would be hard to come by.

Senator DeMint gave props to Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell Tuesday when he joined with other leaders who wanted to end earmarks. DeMint calls it a culture change in Washington.