Out of Touch, Greedy Congress Seeks Pay Raise

An Out of Touch, Overpaid Congress Seeks a Pay Raise

Ever thought $174,000 a year wasn’t quite enough to get by?

Welcome to the world according to retiring Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C.

In a move that baffles those of us living in the sphere of financial common sense, McHenry recently advocated for pay raises for members of Congress and their staff.

While boosting salaries for hard-working congressional staffers is a noble idea most would probably support --- considering their long hours dedicated to serving entire states and districts --- the notion that our already well-compensated lawmakers need even more is nothing short of ludicrous.

Consider this: the average American household earned around $74,580 in 2022, based on U.S. Census data.

This means members of Congress are earning twice as much as most of the constituents they’re supposed to represent.

And the perks don’t end with their salary. They also benefit from superior health coverage and retirement plans --- luxuries most Americans can only dream of.

To put this in perspective, the average Social Security recipient receives around $15,000 annually, and public workers’ pensions average around $26,000. In contrast, a representative in Congress retiring after 20 years can expect a pension averaging $59,000 a year.

Ever envied a student’s summer break? Well, even they might be jealous of Congress’ vacation schedule.

In 2017, Congress was in session for a mere 145 days out of the 261 standard workdays. And in election years, they’re practically part-time employees!

Compare that to the average full-time worker who, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, gets just 11 days of paid leave after a year on the job, 15 days after five years, and 18 days after a decade.

Of course, one must acknowledge the efforts of members of Congress when not in session. Often, this means they’re back in their districts, participating in events and meeting with constituents.

However, it’s important to note that most of these events are campaign related.

One also should not overlook those "workdays" when Congress briefly convenes, sometimes for just a few minutes.

This contrasts sharply with the experience of most Americans, who don’t have the luxury of setting their own schedules and are bound by the typical demands of a 9-to-5 job.

Job productivity is another concern, with that of the current Congress leaving much to be desired.

With just 34 bills passed since last January, the current Congress is shaping up to be one of the least effective in recent history.

In fact, this is the lowest number of bills passed in the first year of a congressional session since the Great Depression!

Considering these figures, it’s hard to argue that the American taxpayer is receiving a good value for their investment.

To draw a parallel, if a worker in any other industry demonstrated such a low level of productivity, it’s unlikely their compensation would even come close to what Congress members receive.

But perks for members of Congress extend beyond just their salary, benefits and flexible schedules.

Members also have access to an exclusive, taxpayer-funded gym, complete with a swimming pool, sauna and stream room, and paddleball and basketball courts.

This means that even on those days when Congress is only in session for a few minutes, members can stay fit, all thanks to the U.S. taxpayer.

It’s yet another example of the privileges enjoyed by lawmakers that are far beyond the reach of most Americans.

Ultimately, it’s critical to acknowledge that many men and women who serve in Congress genuinely deserve their compensation.

Some tirelessly work for the betterment of their constituents, treating their role as a full-time commitment and making significant improvements in their states and districts. Their impact should be recognized and applauded.

However, let’s not forget the essence of the role in its title: public service.

While a salary of $174,000 might not stretch far in Washington, it’s a sum that most Americans could only dream of earning in their lifetimes.

Especially considering the relatively fewer days Congress is in session, and the lighter workload compared to a typical full-time job, their current compensation seems even more generous.

But the benefits don’t stop at the above average salary.

Members of Congress enjoy perks like free airport parking, taxpayer-funded flights often in business or first class and death benefits that surpass those given to our nation’s service members.

When you factor all of that in with an exclusive gym, it’s clear that being a member of Congress comes with privileges far beyond the financial.

Those elected to Congress are there to serve the public, and their rewards seem to increasingly disconnect from the realities of the very people they represent.

Yes, we need dedicated, hard-working legislators, but we also need a Congress that embodies the spirit of service more than the perks of privilege.

Maybe $174,00 doesn’t cut if for some, but given their less-than-stellar output, it seems members of Congress are cashing checks that far exceed what most would deem a fair wage for the job done.

Jacob Lane is a Republican strategist and school choice activist. He has worked for GOP campaigns at the federal, state and local levels, as well as with various PACs and nonprofits. Read Jacob Lane's Reports — More Here.