During a press interaction, Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) reacted dismissively to a question posed by CNN reporter Manu Raju about the rationale for a pay increase for lawmakers in light of a new government funding proposal.
Raju inquired, “Do you guys deserve a pay raise?” prompting Durbin to express surprise at the topic. He stated, “That’s news to me, that’s good news. What’s it been, 10 years, 14 years, no COLA raise, no change at all, I think it’s about time something’s done.”
Raju and Durbin clash over public skepticism of congressional raises
Raju countered by pointing out public skepticism regarding Congress’s performance, questioning why lawmakers should receive more compensation. Durbin responded with a pointed remark, asking, “What about the media … think about that for a second.”
In reply, Raju asserted, “We’re not paid by public money.” Durbin acknowledged this but retorted, “I know you’re not, but half your listeners aren’t there anymore and you’re still getting the same paycheck, what’s going on?”
This exchange followed the introduction of a 1,500-page continuing resolution in Congress, which includes provisions for lawmakers to receive their first salary increase since 2009. Currently, members of Congress earn an annual salary of $174,000, with additional compensation for those in leadership roles.
