And a massive win for party leaders of both parties. Following the 2010 midterm elections in which Republicans seized control of the House, incoming Speaker John Boehner moved to ban them. Until you realize that in taking away earmarks, Boehner robbed party leaders of their most potent weapon to keep their rank-and-file in line on key votes. Without the ability to dole out (and withhold) projects in members' districts, Boehner lost all control of his conference. Party leaders -- especially on the Republican side -- became leaders in name only.

Source: CNN February 16, 2021 15:00 UTC