The case work
- A district staffer helps an elderly constituent apply for Social Security.
Pork barrel:
- -Several representatives earmark money in an economic stimulus bill for projects in their district
- -A congressman inserts language into a bill that builds a bridge with federal money.
What are these examples
Casework involves individualized assistance provided by congressional staff to constituents dealing with issues or navigating federal government services, such as Social Security benefits.
Pork barrel refers to the practice of legislators securing funding or projects for their districts, often as earmarks or specific allocations in bills, with the aim of benefiting their constituents and bolstering local economies.
Question
Congressmembers engage in a variety of activities aimed at serving their constituents. Identify whether each is an example of pork barrel politics or casework.
Casework:
-A district staffer helps an elderly constituent apply for Social Security.
Pork barrel:
-Several representatives earmark money in an economic stimulus bill for projects in their district
-A congressman inserts language into a bill that builds a bridge with federal money.