$200 Million in Pork.. Sure, we can afford them, hey why not let’s give away the barn too. They just don’t get it, not in the least bit.

Silver: There’s room for `member items’ in tight budget

ALBANY, N.Y. - Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver says that despite a proposed budget that attempts to curb spending in tough economic times, there’s room to add spending.

The Manhattan Democrat says he thinks the state can afford “member items” _ derisively called pork by critics _ this election year.

The spending totals more than $200 million and is directed by lawmakers to programs, projects and groups back in their home districts. Silver notes many of the grants are for widely supported health, education and social service goals.

Critics say they are used by lawmakers to attract votes and campaign contributions.

Gov. Eliot Spitzer didn’t include the spending in his budget proposal, but won’t rule it out.

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