Democratic push to revive earmarks divides Republicans KEVIN FREKING, Associated Press FacebookTwitterEmail 2 1of2FILE - In this June 4, 2020, file photo, Rep. Tom Cole, R-Okla., speaks during a hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington. A dirty word for many Republicans is making the rounds on Capitol Hill -- earmarks. For nearly a decade, both chambers of Congress have abided by a ban on earmarks, or spending requested by a lawmaker to fund a specific project or institution back home. But Democrats are moving to bring back the practice, leaving the GOP lawmakers divided over how to respond.(Al Drago/Pool via AP, File)Al Drago/APShow MoreShow Less