A quiet shift is occurring in Washington, a re-emergence of a practice once condemned. While new rules aim to curb blatant conflicts of interest, a significant flow of federal funds is still directed towards the universities and institutions that hold a special place in the hearts – and histories – of powerful senators.
Leading the charge is Senator Mitch McConnell, requesting a staggering $165 million in earmarks. This figure dwarfs the requests of his colleagues, a dramatic turn for a politician who previously championed a complete ban on such allocations. This year alone, he’s filed 60 separate requests, signaling a clear change in approach.
A substantial portion of McConnell’s requests – $100 million spread across four earmarks – is earmarked for the University of Louisville, his undergraduate alma mater. Another $65 million, divided into three earmarks, is intended for the University of Kentucky, where he earned his law degree. The stated purpose? Building cutting-edge research facilities and acquiring high-end laboratory equipment.
Senator Jerry Moran follows with $60 million directed towards the University of Kansas and its affiliated hospital. The pattern continues with Senator Jim Justice, who has requested $57.5 million for Marshall University, the institution from which he received both his bachelor’s degree and MBA.
Justice’s case is particularly striking. Once listed by Forbes as West Virginia’s wealthiest individual, his financial fortunes have dramatically reversed, now reportedly carrying a net worth “less than zero” due to substantial debt. This financial downturn appears to coincide with a shift towards securing government funding for his alma mater.
As governor of West Virginia, Justice previously channeled $45 million to Marshall University for a cybersecurity program and an additional $14 million for a new baseball stadium. Now, as a senator, he continues to direct federal dollars to the institution, seemingly replacing personal philanthropy with public funds.
On the other side of the aisle, Senator Patty Murray is seeking over $50 million for Washington State University, her alma mater, specifically for “construction and facility upgrades.” She joins a group of eight other senators also vying for at least $10 million each for their respective universities.
The 2025 federal budget already contains $121 million in earmarks designated for the alma maters of House members. This reveals a widespread practice, a quiet current of funding flowing back to the institutions that shaped the careers of those now holding the nation’s purse strings.
While regulations have evolved, the potential for influence remains. The flow of funds highlights a continuing, albeit nuanced, connection between personal ties and public spending, raising questions about priorities and the allocation of taxpayer dollars.
