Reply #35: Don't cut Congressional salaries [View All]

[exboyfil]

The most disturbing thing about federal government service is the number of independently wealthy individuals in it or the amount folks cash in after leaving it. We expect our Congressmen and Senators to maintain two homes (one in their district and one in Washington). I would like to see more common folks in public service (like Paul Wellstone for example).

Remember your primary allegiance is to the one paying you. I am troubled by $1/yr. men for the same reason. If you are multimillionaire, it should not be held out as a virtue or even desirable to forego your public service salary. Give it to charity if you want to, but don't make the individual that needs that salary look bad because they are not independently wealthy.

I would like to see Congressional staff cut back if you want to make cut backs in this area. Also I would hit the Congressional pensions to try the limit the amount of time they stay around Congress. Also the Congressional auto lease perk should apply to only under $20K car with at least 25-30 mpg.