Tucked within a massive spending bill, Congress has proposed its first pay raise in 15 years, sparking criticism as Americans struggle with rising costs. If passed, the continuing resolution (CR) would provide lawmakers with a $6,600 raise tied to a 3.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).
The timing of the raise has drawn ire, with inflation under President Joe Biden’s administration leaving many families struggling to afford basic needs. Currently, members of Congress earn $174,000 annually, while leadership positions receive higher salaries.
NEW🚨: Vivek Ramaswamy rips Speaker Johnson's funding bill, says the government is trying to waste your money without telling you.
Here is what's inside:
– Pay raises for members of Congress.
– Expansion of their federal health benefits.
– Opening up a new stadium in… pic.twitter.com/grkeelNoeY— Officer Lew (@officer_Lew) December 18, 2024
Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME) condemned the raise, calling it a “sneaky” inclusion in the must-pass legislation. “Congress should be working to help Americans, not itself,” Golden said. He pledged to vote against the CR until the provision is removed.
Republicans have also voiced their opposition. Rep. Eli Crane (R-AZ) criticized the raise on X, writing, “Congress is failing the American people AGAIN.” Similarly, Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-IN) dismissed the proposal as hypocritical given Congress’ lack of significant accomplishments.
Congress has done nothing to deserve a pay raise – SHUT IT DOWN!
— SazzygirlinCali (@RjbRocklin) December 18, 2024
Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) called for a constitutional amendment to prevent such raises, stating, “Congress shall make no law respecting the citizens of the United States that does not also apply to members of Congress themselves.”
With this pork filled bill, Congress has once again shown its intent to abuse us, trying to sneak through a 40% pay raise for themselves while funding questionable projects, all under the pressure of holiday deadlines.
This might just be their last attempt to exploit their power… pic.twitter.com/EYFpmgq8zq
— LilHumansBigImpact (@BigImpactHumans) December 18, 2024
The CR, which extends government funding through March 2025, also includes provisions allowing lawmakers to opt out of Obamacare. Critics have labeled the bill a rushed effort full of unrelated measures.
