General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: "Struggling to make ends meet" on $174K a year?? Really Nancy??? [View all]GiaGiovanni
(1,247 posts)I can't speak to Pelosi's specific financial situation, but 174K in the DC area (and in SF California) is middle class. (No, I am not kidding. It's not wealthy in places where a modest home in a low crime area STARTS at over half a million and goes up from there.)
Secondly, Congressional reps deal constantly with business lobbyists and industry lawyers who make MORE than they do. There is something about the dignity of the job at stake when the lobbyists and lawyers coming to influence your vote are far better attired and much better accoutered than you are.
I am not saying Pelosi is sympathetic. But there are other Congressional types, especially new reps, who are living on a salary that makes it difficult to buy a home, no less maintain two residences, and still do their job without letting the lobbyists walk all over them.
I believe Congress deserves higher salaries, not lesser ones.