A retiring Republican representative from North Carolina, Patrick McHenry, known for opposing minimum wage hikes in the past, is now advocating for an increase in the $174,000 salaries for rank-and-file members of Congress. McHenry believes that a pay bump would entice "credible people" to run for office, addressing concerns about the financial challenges faced by many lawmakers.
In an interview with the Dispatch, McHenry emphasized the financial constraints faced by most members of Congress, stating, "Most of us don't have wealth." He argued against a scenario where the executive and judicial branches receive higher compensation than Congress, describing it as disadvantageous in the system of checks and balances.
The reaction to McHenry's proposal has been mixed. While some support the idea of higher salaries to attract better candidates, others find it hypocritical, considering McHenry's past vote against raising the federal minimum wage from $7.25 to $15. Critics, like podcaster Brittany Page, point out the inconsistency, stating, "If you feel your salary hasn't kept up with inflation, imagine how poor and working-class Americans feel."
McHenry's history of opposing minimum wage increases, including a vote against raising it from $5.15 to $7.25 in 2007, has been highlighted. At the time, he dismissed it as impractical, particularly for individuals facing physical, emotional, and mental challenges in securing employment.
Having briefly served as the interim House speaker, McHenry announced his retirement in December, marking his 20th year in the House. Despite his party affiliation, he joined other lawmakers in advocating for higher pay for Congress members and their staff. McHenry contends that skill and competence come at a cost, emphasizing the need for competitive salaries to attract top talent.
However, public sentiment on increasing congressional pay seems divided. According to a Business Insider poll conducted in March, most Americans are against a pay raise for Congress, which has not seen an increase since 2009. Notably, the current individual salary of $174,000 is significantly higher than the US median household income in 2022, which stood at $74,580.
Critics argue that Congress members already enjoy various benefits, including access to medical benefits that many Americans lack. As McHenry's comments circulated, some expressed little sympathy for his perceived lack of adequate compensation, suggesting that he consider living on the average income in the US, which is substantially lower than his proposed salary increase.