Members of Congress, who have not received a raise since 2009, currently earn $174,000 annually despite 15 years of inflation.
Rep. Ocasio-Cortez and Rep. McHenry agree that a pay increase is necessary to attract a broader range of candidates and combat corruption.
Ocasio-Cortez emphasized the need for working-class representation and financial viability for public office seekers. (Trending: Trump Responds To Biden’s Bombing In Yemen)
“I’ve been saying this for some time,” Ocasio-Cortez said. “I think he’s [McHenry’s] right. I know it’s kind of a contrarian position.”
“If we want working class people who don’t rely on independent wealth, to represent people in Congress, we have to make it work,” she said.
“We need to raise the minimum wage, we need to make childcare financially viable, and we need to do that for every American,” she added. “We also need to do it in the House.”
While some argue against the raise, citing opposition from the public and the belief that talent can be attracted without financial incentives, others have point to the unique demands and importance of the job, suggesting that lawmakers are currently underpaid.
“People who make great contributions to America don’t do it for the money,” Rep. Ro Khanna said. “I think we can attract talent without the finances.”
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