As the government shutdown drags on, Senate Republicans are pushing a controversial plan that would impose a new tax directly on lawmakers—cutting into their pay each day appropriations remain stalled.
Senator Bernie Moreno of Ohio is moving forward with the “SHUTDOWN Act”, which would levy a daily tax on congressional salaries while the shutdown persists. Supporters argue it would make lawmakers feel the pressure of inaction—something many federal workers already experience.
Critics caution the proposal might clash with constitutional protections. Under current rules, members of Congress must still be paid during a shutdown, and any adjustments to their compensation typically can’t take effect during their current term.
But in a showdown of optics and accountability, GOP backers are betting that tying lawmakers’ pay to performance will resonate with voters frustrated by gridlock—and force their peers to coalesce around reopening the government.