Source: Fortune.com
Summary
The US Senate has unanimously approved a resolution to withhold senators’ pay during government shutdowns. The measure, sponsored by Sen. John Kennedy, aims to make federal closures financially painful for lawmakers. The resolution will take effect after the November 3 general election. This comes after a string of record-breaking shutdowns, including a 76-day partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security. Lawmakers have previously pledged to forgo their paychecks during shutdowns, but this resolution makes it official.
Our Reading
The announcement sounds familiar.
The Senate’s move is a response to the growing frequency and length of government shutdowns. Sen. Kennedy’s resolution is a attempt to create “shared sacrifice” during shutdowns. The measure only applies to senators, not House members. The resolution’s effectiveness remains to be seen, but it’s a step towards making lawmakers feel the financial pain of shutdowns. The numbers tell a story of growing frustration with government closures.
Shared sacrifice becomes a luxury when the stakes are low.
Author: Evan Null
