Controversy Over Pay Raises

Congress-bashing may be America’s favorite sport, as the nation vents its collected wrath over proposed congressional pay raises.

One can certainly find arguments both for and against the raises--however, the only loser in the debate will be our national commitment to great leadership.

Concern about congressional salaries is a convenient issue to grasp when you can’t turn anywhere else to focus frustration about the workings of government. But salaries merely symbolize a scapegoat in the guise of a paycheck.

It is so easy to point an accusing finger at Congress, so effortless to blame our representatives for every symptom of our national ills. However, the truth is that we are now represented by what is arguably the most distinguished body of legislators in American history--men and women from both parties with unique viewpoints about their vision of America, and strong, honest commitments to their beliefs. However, by forcing Congress to veto its raises, we only mock the people we need most in government--the dedicated, forthright, throughly committed legislators.

Instead of quibbling over salaries, we should ask how much is a great Congress worth to America? At the very least, we owe it to ourselves to pay our representatives a salary comparable to the earnings of the head of a small company, the junior partner in a law firm, or about half the average salary of a Washington lobbyist.

What then, would these pay raises accomplish? With a single stroke, we have a tremendous opportunity to change the perception of our national legislators. We can provide our representatives with the salaries that they have a right to expect--given their seniority, expertise, and potential earning power--while, at the same time, eliminating potential influence from lobbyists paid in the form of honorariums.

Denying legislators their financial due accomplishes nothing more than a demonstration of unfocused anger toward government. If we are truly unhappy with our representatives, then we should voice our opinions at the ballot box. But forcing a salary freeze down Congress’ throat penalizes the entire institution and the people who serve it well--and ultimately, we get what we pay for.

CHARLES E. YOUNG

Chancellor, UCLA