A growing number of elected officials are publicly rejecting their federal salaries while the government remains shut down, joining what they call “a gesture of solidarity” with furloughed workers.
Some legislators have pledged to donate their pay to affected federal employees or local charities until funding is restored. Others say withholding their own compensation highlights the urgency of resolving the standoff.
The move adds another dimension to the political pressure surrounding the shutdown, as lawmakers attempt to align themselves with voters feeling the impact of stalled services and delayed pay.