Flake Challenges McHenry Money For "Perfect Christmas Tree"

(The Politico) 

Two conservative Republicans battled it out on the House floor Thursday over a special project.

Jeff Flake, the Arizona conservative who has waged a well-publicized crusade against federal spending, challenged money requested by fellow upstart Patrick McHenry for small businesses in a beleagured community in his western North Carolina district.

McHenry has never shied from a floor fight - even if it means ignoring the concerns of his leaders - and took the floor to defend the money for the "Perfect Christmas Tree" project, a public-private venture to subsidize artisans who craft Christmas ornaments and other holiday decorations in two counties beset by rising unemployment.

The North Carolina Republican had expected Flake or some other member to challenge this money ever since the project was reported last week. But McHenry shouldn't be too offended; Flakes targets numerous projects in each bill every year. Most lose overwhelmingly, but Democrats may side with Flake on this one just to punish the youthful McHenry, who really annoys them.

And to think, Democrats questioned these conservatives' commitment to a fair and open debate.