Taxpayers for Common Sense has released the last four years of earmark data for Alaska to help create an understanding of how powerful Senator Ted Stevens (R-AK) has remained as an appropriator. The new research has found that Senator Stevens has secured or played a significant role in securing more than 891 earmarks worth $3.2 billion, which comes to $4,872 per capita over the last four years. This is more than 18 times the national average of $263 per capita for the same four years.

This number is higher than the numbers reported by others because TCS researchers have obtained the locations of many of the defense earmarks which typically are not disclosed.

While some might believe that Alaska will take a big hit in earmarks, it is likely that Senator Stevens’ long shadow and close friendships, particularly with Defense Appropriations Subcommittee Chair Senator Daniel Inouye (D-HI), will ensure Alaska continues to get more than its fair share.