Is Congress hypocritical about government shutdown?

BY DR. GLENN MOLLETTE

The American government shutdown impacts about 1.4 million federal workers, with roughly 700,000 furloughed and another 700,000 deemed essential continuing to work without pay. This number does not include the 42 million Americans who rely on SNAP benefits. About 13,000 air traffic controllers and about 50,000 TSA officers are currently working without pay. Once the government shutdown ends, they will receive their pay. Most Americans live paycheck to paycheck, so this is a tough time.

The shutdown is expected to shave 0.1 to 0.2 percentage points off annualized inflation-adjusted GDP growth per week. It is also delaying the release of economic data, which could make it harder for the Federal Reserve to make informed decisions on interest and monetary policy. However, many economists believe the adverse effects will be temporary and will be recovered when normal operations resume.

The main sticking point is that Democrats want the spending plan to include an extension of the enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies first adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, while Republicans say Congress should approve a funding bill before taking up the subsidy issue.

During the government shutdown, the average U.S. congressman makes around $14,500 per month. Their annual salary is $174,000. They also receive government health insurance, ongoing government-matching contributions to their retirement plan, paid time off, a free gym membership, and other perks.

U.S. Congress members still receive salaries during a shutdown because the 27th Amendment to the Constitution prevents congressional pay raises or decreases during their current term. Their salaries come from a permanent appropriation that is not tied to annual spending bills. They are considered essential workers, even though they're not directly affected by the shutdown like other federal workers.

Most Americans think it is unfair for Congress to be paid during a shutdown while federal workers are not. Many argue it is hypocritical and unjust. In response, several members of Congress reportedly have chosen not to receive their pay until the shutdown is resolved.

During the shutdown, Americans can take several steps to make a difference. They can contact their representatives to express their concerns, donate to charities assisting furloughed workers, and participate in peaceful rallies. Supporting local businesses and national parks, volunteering with organizations that aid federal employees, and staying informed through credible news sources all help ease the strain. Above all, reaching out to neighbors affected by the shutdown and voting in the next election remain the most powerful ways to be heard.

(Glenn Mollette's column is published weekly in more than 600 publications in all 50 states.)

The views expressed in this guest column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Elizabethton Star.