This should surprise no one; this system has been in failure from it's beginning.  Much of our gov't rhetoric has switched from solid efforts toward enhancing Public Safety, to creating the 'sensation of safety' among the Public - as long as the public Feels that gov't funds and acts will make them safe, then whichever level of gov't involved feels comfortable digging public funds into it.  This applies to all levels of gov't.  The great influence of the industries receiving the public funds doesn't do much to enhance the honesty of the gov't toward it's people.  Alaska's Senators have vigorously backed this particular massive waste and con-job because it brings Fed monies to Ak, and that will buy them voter support, as well as industry contributions to their 'war chests'.