Senators Withhold Paychecks Amid Government Shutdown Crisis
UPDATE: As the federal government shutdown stretches into its second week, at least 55 U.S. senators have chosen to either withhold their paychecks or donate their salaries in solidarity with furloughed federal workers. This urgent decision reflects a significant political stance amid a crisis affecting millions of Americans.
According to a tally by ABC News, the breakdown includes 26 Republicans, 28 Democrats, and 1 independent who have opted out of their salaries during the ongoing shutdown that began on September 29, 2023. However, the offices of 27 Republicans, 17 Democrats, and 1 independent have not yet responded to inquiries regarding their decisions.
The Constitution guarantees members of Congress their salaries even during a shutdown, but many lawmakers are choosing to forgo their pay as a gesture of empathy towards federal employees who are now working without compensation. Professor Casey Burgat from George Washington University explained that lawmakers aim to demonstrate solidarity with constituents, saying, “Their goal is to be empathetic.”
Withholding pay has become a contentious political strategy. For instance, Republican Senator Katie Britt from Alabama publicly announced her decision to withhold pay on X (formerly Twitter), attributing her action to the government shutdown caused by Democrats. In contrast, Democratic Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia declared, “In solidarity with America’s federal workers, I will not accept pay during this shutdown… It’s time for Republicans to meet us at the table.”
Among those donating their salaries, Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) is contributing to health care initiatives and Meals on Wheels, while Republican Senator Ashley Moody (R-FL) is directing her salary to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) confirmed that his salary will go to the Federal Employee Education & Assistance Fund.
However, not all senators are following this trend. Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) recently expressed his challenges in forgoing his paycheck, stating he is not wealthy and has significant financial responsibilities. He referred to the gesture of not taking pay as a “gimmick” that distracts from the real issues facing working Americans.
Government shutdown updates indicate that lawmakers are leveraging this situation to shift blame across party lines, with both sides using the shutdown to highlight perceived failures of the other. As the impasse continues, Congress faces increasing pressure to reach an agreement and reopen the government.
Looking ahead, more senators may decide to take action regarding their salaries as calls for accountability grow. Lawmakers, including Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH), have proposed legislation to impose financial penalties on Congress members during a shutdown, illustrating the frustration felt by many constituents.
With the stakes high and millions affected, citizens are watching how their representatives respond. The urgency to resolve this shutdown has never been clearer, as federal employees and the broader public await resolutions that impact their livelihoods.
Stay tuned for more breaking updates on this developing story.
