A recent bill aimed at increasing congressional salaries faced criticism for its scope and fueled misinformation about the magnitude of the proposed raise. While the bill would have only granted a 3.8% cost of living adjustment, equating to roughly $6,600, it highlighted the issue of lawmakers' stagnant pay compared to inflation. Congress last increased salaries in 2009, resulting in a 31% decline in real value.
Lawmakers on Capitol Hill haven't had a pay increase since 2009, representing a 31% decline in their salary when adjusted for inflation.Congressional freshmen of the 119th Congress pose on the steps of the House of Representatives of the U.S. Capitol on Nov. 15, 2024, in Washington, D.C.Lawmakers on Capitol Hill got close to getting their first salary bump in 15 years in a pre-Christmas bill to keep the government funded through the spring.
"I was surprised to hear my pay was going up to $240,000 — that was news to me," Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., mused at the time.Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., said he thinks it's reasonable for lawmakers to get equal treatment with the rest of the federal workforce, which does receive cost of living increases.
"When adjusted for inflation, member salaries have decreased 31% from 2009, when they last received a pay increase," said Brandice Canes-Wrone, a political science professor at Stanford University.
Congressional Pay Inflation Cost Of Living Government Funding Salary Increase
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Congressional Pay Raise Sparks Shutdown ThreatA proposed continuing resolution to fund the government faces opposition due to the removal of language preventing Congressional pay raises. Lawmakers debate the merits of the raise amidst public discontent and looming shutdown deadline.
Read more »
Durbin Grills CNN Reporter Over Congressional Pay RaiseSenator Dick Durbin engaged in a heated exchange with a CNN reporter about a proposed pay raise for lawmakers.
Read more »
Sen. Durbin Grills CNN Reporter Over Congressional Pay RaiseSenator Dick Durbin engaged in a heated debate with a CNN reporter regarding the proposed pay raise for lawmakers in a spending bill. Durbin expressed surprise at the provision, argued that Congress deserved a raise after years of no increase, and even challenged the reporter on media pay in light of declining ratings.
Read more »
Congressional Pay Raise Sparks Backlash and Bipartisan DebateA proposed cost-of-living raise for lawmakers included in a temporary government funding bill has ignited controversy. While some political experts acknowledge the merits of a raise, many criticize the timing and argue that lawmakers are undeserving. The debate highlights the recurring question of whether Congressional salaries should be increased.
Read more »
Musk and Trump Clash over Congressional Pay Raise BillA proposed bill to block an automatic pay raise for members of Congress was halted after facing backlash on social media fueled by misinformation.
Read more »
Congressional Republicans rip Biden for about-face pardon of son Hunter: 'So corrupt'Today's Video Headlines
Read more »