Washington, DC – Rep. Tom Price (GA-06-R) issued the following statement challenging all Members of Congress to lead by example. With the earmark system in Congress fatally flawed, Price will not request any new earmarks.

“The earmarking system has corrupted the budget process and eroded public confidence in our government,” said Price. “We have fought to provide transparency in the earmark system, but it continues to sap the integrity of Congress.

“This problem will not resolve itself. Restoring trust in Washington’s spending habits will require principled leadership. I am proud to step forward and say ‘I will not contribute to this fatally flawed system.’

“A complete overhaul of the earmarking system is the only way to end wasteful and abusive earmarking. We can no longer tolerate a budgeting system that mocks transparency and accountability. The American people work hard and deserve a government that is mindful of that fact when spending their tax dollars.

“It is time we value the trust of all taxpayers more than their money.”