The Nation - News from July 25, 1989

House Speaker Thomas S. Foley (D-Wash.) said a pay increase for members of Congress should be included in the pay package President Bush has proposed for federal judges and top executive branch officials. Speaking at the National Press Club, Foley said the “traditional linkage” between executive and legislative branch pay “should not be broken.” An attempt earlier this year to pass a 50% pay increase for Congress and other top officials was shelved because of public protest. Bush since has proposed raises of up to 25% for judges and executive branch officials. Bush made no proposal for a congressional pay raise, but Foley said he does not think the President opposes an increase. Lawmakers currently earn $89,500 a year.