It is usually explained that it derives from the practice of providing a barrel of salt pork to slaves, as a reward or to celebrate a special occasion. The barrel was set out by the landowner at a predetermined time and the slaves rushed to get their share.
Pork barrel came from the taxes given by every citizen for the government to function well.
Politicians might use pork barrel spending to win support from their constituents.
Pork barrel projects
The funding of politicians in the United States is nicknamed the "pork barrel" because politicians are paid way too much for doing so little. Once elected many politicians are "set for life".
Politicians only approved the pork barrel spending to gain political support. They didn't approve it because they are for it, they did it so they can win.
Politicians might use pork barrel spending to win support from their constituents.
It helps politicians win support from their constituents
To win political support
Politicians might use pork barrel spending to win support from their constituents.
help politicians win support from their constituents
It helps politicians win support from their constituents
Politicians might use pork barrel spending to win support from their constituents.
So they can get money for something in their district.