Congressional pay hike??

I try very hard not to listen to talk radio before coming to the office, to avoid high blood pressure and a twitch in my left eye. This morning, however, I'm glad I tuned in, because the local talk guys were debating Congress' new pay raise.

According to the Associated Press, Democrats had blocked a cost-of-living increase in Congressional salaries last year, vowing not to take a pay raise until they passed a minimum wage hike. That very event occured last July, and now lawmakers will receive $169,300 a year. That's an increase of $4,100.

It does make one wonder about the push for the minimum wage last year, and the intent and sentiment behind it.

More disturbing is that this pay raise was automatic; there was no record vote on this pay increase, so we have no idea who might have been for it or against it. It's not entirely clear if your Congressman, for instance, believes he's worth $169,300 a year.

This is your money, taxpayers, being used to fund these salaries. Ask yourself now if your congressman or senator is truly worth $169,300.