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Urgent Reader Poll:
Should Congress Eliminate Its Tax-Payer Funded Perks… And Live Like The Rest Of Us?
Washington lawmakers live a life most Americans can only dream of.
They have a minimum salary more than triple the average worker, three-day work weeks to go with month-long vacations, and special tax breaks that would make most CEO's jealous.
It's no wonder Congress has lost any sense of the true value of money or a hard day's work.
This lack of fiscal leadership is part of the reason why the U.S. is now more than $17 trillion in debt and needs to borrow 46 cents out of every dollar it is spending this year.
And it's a big reason why Congress can never seem to figure out how to solve any of America's most pressing economic problems.
You and others never mention a couple of the biggest perks of all. It must be neglect, because it can't be ignorance. 1. > They CAN'T BE CONVICTED OF INSIDER TRADING.!!!! Yes that is a BIG ONE! 2 > They are all treated like royalty wherever they go. They are waited on, bowed to, massaged, saluted, and treated like Kings and Queen or heads of State. 3.>They often don't have to pay for stuff or pay a large discount, because it's good business to have a Congressman visit your restaurant or hotel. 4. The Goverment pays huge amounts of money… Read more »
Pelosi made millions on the insider deal with Visa. Martha Stewart went to JAIL for doing just that
I HEAR THAT IS NOT THE ONLY PELOSI INSIDER TRADER DEAL. SHE NEEDS TO BE IN A FEDERAL PRISON FOR SURE.
No! Bob Vittar, Republican of Louisiana confirmed John of prostitutes need to be in jail. I'm no fan of Nancy but she has not violated the law!
Insider Trading IS against the law; therefore she did, in fact, brake the law (at least a law that all of us 'little people' are required to obey).
Its not Bob Vittar…..so what he got a shot of a** in private life…..I like his politics!
Your wrong Nate Nancy did break. The law they pass laws for all of us meaning they have to follow the laws they make no one is above the law so don't be stupid
It's David Vitter, and you obviously don't know politics or law.
Pelosi has done many violations and broken many laws. How about blackmail and extortion for passing the Obama Care! She lied, twisted more arms and blackmailed many to get the unread document passed! She has violated all sorts of trust and laws. How can you stick up for this criminal?
We have to confirm it so we will know what is in it.
Yes you are a fan of Nancy so own up to it. In fact, Vittar has gotten caught at what all too many guys do. His state continues to vote him in office. Pelosi is up to her neck in cronyism and use of the public treasury to enrich her family, both as lobbyists, and as beneficiaries of government money. When she was Speaker, she kept a military plane on standby so she could make frequent trips with family to west coast. Neither option may be a good one, but in this instance I'll take the busted John any day… Read more »
Not much, her inside deals r one thing, but she has also been found pass bills that have direct impact on her husbands dealing in the America Samoans islands.
No she just commited treason by verifying that obumer was born in Hawaii when he wasnt. She like most of congress and the senate are traitors and criminals. If they can inside trade then so should we. They cost us a fortune and within 2 terms are multi millionares. Vote them all out!!! And start over with blue collar workers who know how to balance a budget!!!!!!!
no, Nate, his name is David Vitter. They went after weiner, but not Vitter, why, because the GOP takes care of their own…..ask Issa…….
Pelosi and other members of the legislature enjoy the ability to buy and trade stocks based on information they have about certain sectors through pending legislation. This is insider trading at its' best. The legislature has passed laws explicitly exempting themselves from the same insider trading laws that would send the rest of us to jail.
They made the laws that allow them to 'inside' trade.
Not to mention, they voted themselves automatic raises.
I agree.
She is to Ugly to be in federal prison…Californians need to send her home and stop putting the "three wicket witches of the West" back in office every four years. They (Feinstein, Boxer and Nancy) are the worst far left liberals on the planet…did I mention all three are ugly too…no…not ugly, but fugly.
SHE WOULD MAKE CASTRO A GOOD CHAMBER MAID AND THE OTHERS SHOULD GO HOME
What I would like to know is why the "Heck" does California keep voting her back in?
How do we stage a "tea party" to eliminate this new royalty class of citizens.
They make the laws and will never consider ending the abusive perks that us
ordinary citizens don't even dream about.
While most of us have to work at least 10 years to qualify for partial pension benefits, our congressman qualify for full benefits after serving one term.
Alan,
I'm ready for the tea party independent movement so badly I can't stand it.
Please let me know if there is a movement we can join and start voting in honst, carrying and useful people into office. We HAVE to start somewhere. Now is definitely the time. I'm 60, married, have a family and want to see real changin my lifetime.
Hell, WE can start a movement, I'm READY.
Chris Gonsoulin
Pensacola, Fl.
I am so in Chris, let's get these losers OUT!! If there is a movement, let me know!!
Chris, I am with you however, I think the media has made the TEA (Tax Enough Already) party a bad name I would like to see a "Constitution" Party start. I would join that in a minute, and what is important is how would the media state your crazy if you believe in the Constitution?
How about the right wing radical party? We might scare the hell out of them. Lets go!!!! Or you got mine now I am going to get yours.
Chris, I believe a lot of people support your idea for some kind of a party; however, Congress all agreed that they each are entitled to every perk each of them receives, and without our vote on the subject(s). Who then really represents the PEOPLE'S interests? We say, "BUT IT'S OUR MONEY!!!" How then are we to believe any of our PROCLAIMED representatives will consider the concerns about anything related to the betterment of our country's PEOPLE or, for that matter, the CONSTITUTION? Certainly, insider trading is a crime for everyone except CONGRESS. I honestly believe this kind of TYRANNY… Read more »
If you read up on the tea party crazies you will find out they are against everything this country is based on the tea party wants to abolish social security, medicare, medicade,food stamps,womens rights to decide on their own health, cut cancer treatments and anything that helps people when they are down and out. The only thing the tea party stands for is to disrupt everything Obama is trying to do for people like you and I. I personally think the tea party is a terrorist organization.
Well we had the Taxed Enough Already party trying to do just that and look what the government controlled media did to them. Good luck, it is a very entrenched and powerful establishment you want to take down, R's and D's alike. They will not go WILLINGLY.
I think what we need to do is just vote out everyone! Every last one of these jokers! They are all too spoiled, too out of touch and too ingrained into the culture of Washington. By voting them all out, we would send a powerful message. "You work for us" now do your job, or we'll replace you as well!
There are countries where one pays higher taxes but that work in a more honest fashion for their people. The first chance I have I will move.
Paul corley, You are a far left liar just like obumer, reid and pelosi. The Tea Party is against everything obumer wants because everything he wants is bad for our country. The Tea Party wants to fix our economy, health care system, energy costs, government spending. These things were all caused by the damocrats and the media. Go drink some more of your drug enhanced kool aid and leave the true american Patriots alone!!!!!!!!
It will be a miracle if it happens Chris. Just look at some of these morons on here arguing over whether the Republicans or Democrats are the better group. Apparently some people are just too stupid to realize they are one and the same !
Good point Chris, what I don't understand is why aren't we rioting and protesting against all this?? How else can things change? We can vote out the bad but the new Politian will get sucked in once they get to DC. Unless we all get radical and start protesting loudly, nothing will happen.. I am a follower not a leader, so if anyone knows how to start something up that will put positive change in DC, I AM ALL FOR IT, AND WILL HELP….
it is important for all of us to align with electoral opposition to these scum. the T party looks like the way to go now and in the near future elections.
why do we keep sending these crooks back into office.we need some fresh honest blood in our government.
This is obscene,they should not be allowed to invest in the stock market at all. Now there is no reason to be recieving social security,you are all to rich to start with.You are always saying,you want to help the citizens,that is pure bull crap. you are a bunch of pigs,you have prayes said before you work,people there is not enough prayers that will help when your life ends.MAY GOD HAVE MERCY ON YOUR SOUL.
OK, I agree that these guys and gals are ripping us off. How do we get them back on the same train as all the rest of us? It seems that the only way, is for us to limit them to one term at a time. We have the power to limit their term. It is only when they get to stay there that they wiggle their way into the DC Mafia. If possible, we should attach their salary to what the State that the represents think they are worth. Let the State pay the salary, and cut off all… Read more »
You can't vote them out, the two party system keeps putting in the same type people. They don't follow the constitution, they make their own rules. If we rebel, they throw 'us' in jail. Do we need a third party, who monitors them? We can't monitor or correct the present politicians. Do we wait for the World Brotherhood of Muslims to take over (via Obama) to settle the problem (this should be in place by the end of Obama's term). Nobody has a 'battle' plan. We can't screen any 'new' politicians.
Just vote the old politicians out and do it often…..that will keep the money pushers jumping thru the hoop to see who they can buy off…
I do not believe any of this comes from our President. He already is limited to two terms max. Perhaps we should consider extending this control to The House and Senate members. It might just solve the problem, and have a big impact on our budget deficit. I am just sayin….
Florida's House and Senate voted two term limits on themselves. They can't even walk in a place of business and get a free cup of coffee, much less be taken to lunch and have their check picked up. This has turned into a disaster. On term limit, new people being voted in have just began to get their feet wet and understand how it all works, and they are termed out. This is especially true of persons never having been in a political office before. We, they people, are wishing that we could extend this term limit for a longer… Read more »
the crap that goes on behind closed door. we american's should do all the votes as congress does who needs cheaters and games
I am afraid any of what you are all wishing you could plan and pull off is too late .Look at Sirya, and what has happened to their citizens, look at eygpt , half and Half amungst themselves.( Islamics ), some are good some are not good..they clash and related to that is Isreals Borders being surrounded by , Iran , Hamas and Hezbelah ..all terrorists who want to Irradicate all Jews… What I am trying to say is The Whole world is in a horrible state of affairs..the only way out is throgh Jesus Christ The almight one ..Our… Read more »
Simple solution. Next time you vote, vote out anyone up for reelection. Send a message that we are fed up with the Feds. If you don't vote them out the you have nothing to whine about.
Problem is, I'd have to vote for a damned donkey, and friends, that ain't gonna happen.
We can get together and have a party when all the partiers aren't required to be good christians or any other specific characteristic of a "good patriot".
VOTE THEM OUT. That is how we eliminate this.
You are so right VOTE THEM OUT!!!!! and have term limits 2 terms just like the president
You are not correct. They do not qualify for full benefits after one term. They are Federal employees and must complete a minimum of 5 years to be vested. Then the counter starts toward their retirement just like any other federal employee.
One term for a Senator is 6 years. That equals one term. Representatives term is two years so they would have to serve two terms. Someone suggested 4 or 5 terms. For a Senator that would equal 24or30 years and for a Representative it would be 8 or 10 years. Not acceptable for me.
how do we get this vote in front of congress so they don't have any questions about how we, the people, actually feel about them?
Check out an organization called "WolfPac". It is promoting a way to stop this foolishness. WolfPac wants to get a constitutional convention convened so we can make sure that corporations are NOT people. Write your Senators and your Representative and ask them to supply you with what they spend to staff and furnish their offices.
This administration does not adhere to the constitution so what good with a constitutional convention do. So far they have violated Article 1, section 1 through executive orders.directives that change the meaning of laws previously inacted, section 7, for allowing the senate to orginate bills for raising Revenue, section 8 allowing the Pres. with UN approval to bomb another country without approval of Congress, Article II natural born citizen become Pres. , Amendments 1st, 2nd 4th, 5th, 6th,10th,14th, all violated, the 15th, 24th and 26th have been abridged by stopping states from ensuring only citizens vote. Do you think they… Read more »
You have a point, but, the Unions are as culpable as corporations. Public Service Unions should be against the law. Even Roosevelt said the public worker could not join a union. It all causes the same results. Money in/Money out.
Pelosi liar and snake that she is. and obama demos repubs the others feds. washington dc.
yes , send her to prision, its about time we americans wake up, people like her think they are royalty, she is no better the some person living on the street., our fore fathers didnt mean for people to become filthy rich off the goverment, and the president is no better, spending money like he does to go golfing and vacations one right after another, he doesnt do enough to deserve a vacation., hes a president, not a king, now he wants to do a third term, i dont believe it>
This is for all of you ( not just for John ). How-in-th-hell, can you sit there and bicker about the money the politicians spend, at a time when our nation is under attack ( literlly ) by the islamist world, with our president leading them. They put him in office ( an expertly choreographed, activity) as part of a project that got it's start about 60 years, ago. Right now, the only thing to save this nation from total destruction is the impeachment of barrack hussein obama. The supreme court has already given the congress the official, go-ahead, it's… Read more »
Pelosi is one of the worst ever FAT CATS. We the American people allowed this to happen. Not content with flying around in her own Commercial Airliner she even charges us for a bottle of water. Why don't the politicians worry more about fuel prices even though we have more resources than anywhere in the world? Because they charge us for their furl costs and most of their families are on the doll! Then they make more money from the lobbyists who are keeping the price of fuel high. Can you imagine how the economy would take off if fuel… Read more »
VOTE THEM ALLOUT AND GO WITH TERM LIMITS
What gives when one person goes to jail and another don't get much media attention of the fact. Where is the DOJ?
NO, Stewart was convicted for trumped up perjury charge.
No Martha went to jail for lieing to congress, u know much like Bill Cliton, but Martha unlike Bill went to jail.
Oh will, we elect people to hold office, they pass laws to apply to taxpayers n yet these people r not held accountable for anything.
Isn't it time to change this system, hold them accountable, n demand that no law is passed that doesn't apply to congress as well. Tired of government discriminating against legal citizens of America.
PELOSI SHOULD OF WENT TO JAIL WHEN THEY CHANGED THE INSIDE TRADING, THIS WAS AGAINST THE LAW FOR GOVERNMENT PEOPLE TO HAVE ANY THING TO DO WITH THIS, AND FOR AS MANY WHO WENT ALONG WITH THIS SHOULD OF LOST THERE JOBS AND SHOULD OF PAID TH TAX PAYERS THE MONEY BACK FOR DOING SOMETHING LIKE, I FEEL THAT POLOSI SHOULDN'T BE GETTING PAID FOR ANYTHING SHE DOE AND BE PUT OUT OF HER JOB, WHEN YOUR A CERTAIN AGE YOU SHOULD GET OUT OF THE WHITE HOUSE AND HAVE YOUR FINISH WITH ANYTHING, THERE MAKING MORE MONEY AND THEN… Read more »
SHE NEEDS TO BE PUT A WAY FOR LIFE WITH HARD LABOR
As if that's not bad enough, Marthas reputation is tarnished. The general population doesn't clearly understand and tends to judge her based solely on the fact she went to prison. Some don't even know what she did to be given her sentence. Ashame want this strong business women has had to endure, when others are never made to answer for their crimes.
It seems the presidents words indicating that we all will suffer from the sequester, does not apply to our political leaders. Unless our leaders return to a serving mentality and live with a compensation like the rest of Americans do, the top heaviness from the financial weight it costs to run the government is going to topple us as a country. They forget that the trillions of tax dollars sent to Washington is to run the country, not pad their own pockets. Who in government has the courage to stand up demand the use of our money change?
all there right wing people better wake up and smel the roses, all i ask is to visit both sides and get the truth , and ps get away from racest comment ps im white and very happy i grew up in the getto with mmixed races , i have done well
Give them Minimum wage no perks ,Medicare ,no gas fiights make them buy all of their own equitment and pay rent and utilities and lose ALL LIFE TIME CONCESSIONS .Then see who they Support because we will out Law lobbying for ever !
000
I agree with you wholeheartedly. In fact I think we should fire the lot and hire some out of work folks who have a clue about "budgets"
They should live in their districts and listen to their constituents visiting WDC only for votes.
Agreed, to most all comments. Our "public servants", including and maybe especially so, should get no more than a living wage, and only if they aren't independently wealthy when they enter office or become so at any time while in office. Any expense needed for "fact finding" or otherwise should be fully documented in public record, talking complete copies of receipts and explanation as to why it was necessary, no act of a public servant should qualify for national security protection, that's what the military is for, if they need to not disclose where they are going or for why… Read more »
Exactly public service should be an honor with very little pay involved, president included. That would definitely weed out the money hungry bunch like we have now.
I LOVE THIS!!!
I agree, it is time the USA comes back into the hands of the people not the government
They seem to conveniently forget that they are "public servants". Therefore, they ought to be making minimum wage or their jobs should be "volunteer". Bet things would get fixed real fast then. They also need term limits. And what about the Senate and House of Representatives? Supreme Court Justices? What are their salaries and perks? The same should be applied to them also. All of this needs to be stopped. If they get minimum (rounded up) $60,000 a year in pensions, then they shouldn't be allowed to *also* receive Social Security, they don't even pay into that do they?
They should be under the same law of other civil servant, government employee. If you get a government pension but have paid in enough into SS during private employment , your SS pension is reduced by 2/3 what you would be entitled to if you did not get a government pension.
In town that I lived we had friends who daughter was employed by Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. She was paid over 70,000 per year just to make sure her robe didn't have any wrinkles and to put in on her when needed.
You are so right! Nothing but a bunch of crooks in government and it has been like that for a long time! Complaining does not help. Action does! You can not change things when the public does not do anything about that. Get rid of all them old farts in congress and in the senate and elect new people, and, for sure the speaker of the house!!! He is arrogant and vain and needs to stay home and treat his family like he does the citizens of this great country and yes, fire him without the benefit of getting unemployment:-)… Read more »
I,m going out on a limb, but you are either misinformed or completely ignorant of Mr.& Mrs. Obama's abuses. Congress could not hold a candle to the financial abuses of our first family. Together they have spent more money on themselves than the last five presidents combined( Hundreds of MILLIONS )Mrs. Obama has over twenty assistants on payroll. The next nearest first lady was Hillary Clinton with three.These abuses are on several govt websites. Stop drinking the koolaid. Do you have over twenty assistants on payroll. TO DO WHAT!
Your comments show a lack of mature judgment, commonly known as weasel words. Try to remember, there is no dispute if you identify facts and accept an unknown as an unknown. If one believes something to be true or false because they would like it to be true or false, an argument to consequences is involved. When one is hopeful for a positive consequence, they are engaging in a particular version of argument to consequences called wishful thinking. Wishful thinking is synonymous with denial…denial is often the last refuge of the unconvinced.
Hi Barbara…I voted for Obama because I though he was the lesser of 2 evils. However, I never intended for him to misconstrue his election to think I want him to do anything he wants without working with the other 2 branches of government…all of which are unaccountable for the screwing Americans are receiving. After Obamacare, I certainly don't feel Mr. Obama should be "left alone" to do what ever he pleases. I believe no matter whom you elect to serve in Washington, nothing will change because once they are in Washington, they become another pig at the trough of… Read more »
I agree with you whole heartedly. Obama is doing the best he can while the Republicans only goal is to get rid of him.
His agenda is to spend as much money as possible, turn the country into a welfare state, and take vacation.
Yea – Lets all give Obama all the money he wants to spend and of course, allow him to print money anytime and raise the debt limit.
Sorry Barbara but you sound like a complete idiot. You might want to retract your "Contract" Statement before it bites you
i'm for that. I really think it should be a volunteer thing. See how many would do that?
our government is going to destroy what is left of america.
sad to see it happening but it is going down hill fast
InVESTIGATE PELOSI and her Husband! Again!
Its time they serve the people and stop living off of us………
f any member of congress would come and live with any senior citizen they would see what it is like, just for one month. Or live with a family on the poverty line. They just might be shocked. Take away some of their perks even and let them pay for themselves. They want to play with our social security that we have worked for all our lives. My husband and I don't even get a pension. They would be welcome to come stay with me for a month.
Great points Ron! One other point. They get to vote and authorize their own raises!!!
Term limits & let America draft the policies on what they can and cannot do.
If i thought my comments would matter i would be the first to do so, but we all know that this will fall on deaf ears of our greedy pigs in congtess and our government. I won't waste my breath on this useless crap!!!!
I'm sorry but you just did.
Thank you, This is how we Let our feelings be Known and just I hope some one will pay attention .
^THIS…..it cant be ignored that while the "news" was being alarmist with the latest North Korean saber rattling, and getting people worried and all worked up, that the Congress repealed the insider trading bill they passed last year after scrutiny and a giant spot light was shown on it. These people make deals with corporations, or purposely invest in sectors they know their legislation will effect directly to influence it. That should be a crime in itself. But, just go back to sleep. The news will tell you what to think, and what to worry about. Keep worrying about party… Read more »
Ron, I agree with the insider trading comment. Our DC officials know where the billions are going to be spent beforehand. Nice info for they and their buds. If they don't leak the info to their cronnies, they are exposed abused and run out of town.
Political office is addictive; probably more so than drugs, power, perks and profit. Let's use term limits to put them in a rehab program call a real job in the real world.
I knew a great percentage would vote for congress to take all their perks away but it should be 100%. There must be some of them voting in this poll.
Sure are a lot of wisher here. You have the fox guarding the hen house, buy what means do you believe they or any one not in those comfy positions will vote to downgrade them or even approach a change. Only one way to make a change and most will not follow. Whats left?
Your propaganda is very much slanted. While you are attacking Nancy Pelosi, what are the Republican leaders positions on these benefits. It is easy to oppose benefits when you absolutely know that they will not be eliminated and you still get the benefit despite your vote. Further, what about the public being able to enjoy some of the same benefits.
The advertisers appear to be from the same sources that gave us the market failures in 2000 and the housing blunders in 2008. Time to wise up folks!
The truth hurts I know.
And what do we taxpayers get for all this extraordinary money? Extraordinary service? Nope. Try an extraordinary screwing. Congress does NOTHING, unless you count the TWO TIMES this year alone that they raised middle class taxes after promising to never do so. First they raised our Social Security tax on January 1, and now they are on the fast track to impose sales tax on middle class internet sales. These things they gleefullyly passed. But something useful like a real budget? Oh no, can't have that!
None of the above is true.
Agree. The big bucks aren't the salary, gym etc. Insider trading and cushy directorships etc when they leave office dwarf the salary.
Is it really possible that 546 individuales make ALL the rules for over 340,000,000?
They should not be above the law what is good for one should be good for the rest. Pelosi Should be locked up as well. It is wrong for any of them to be above the law.
The members of congress, senate, and president should be less valuable than the military that is charged to protect us. The elected officials should be paid just like the members of the service with no more benefits than the service members get. The pay rate for civil service is based on performance and pay grade. Start at the bottom and work your way up like everyone else. If they want to campaign, then pay for it yourself, but when your away from your job, you will be on leave of absence without pay. All people should pay into S.S. and… Read more »
Most of you are picking on Pelosi but it is every member!! Call them all out not just Pelosi!
Exactly….!
I tried a number of times in my 26 years in military to citizen/military arrest a politician for speeding/reckless/drunk driving, having illegal Cuban cigars, having illegal Russian Vodka, etc and was told by civilian police their DC plates cannot be stopped ….diplomatic immunity… that was initiated so as they could not be arrest.. detained when on their way to a VOTE NOT a party, and more or less the same from military authorities .. all afraid of their careers!!! BULL!!
I recently had the pleasure of sitting next to Senator John McCain IN COACH !!! What a pleasant surprise. He was very pleasant to chat with also.
I agree with everything except the first one. That one has been made illegal and they can be convicted just like everyone else. Tho it wouldn't surprise me if they found a way around it
ALL THESE PERKS AND THEY CAN NOT MAKE GOOD DECISIONS FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.
SOMETHING TERRIBLY WRONG WITH THIS PICTURE.
They could care less about the people they were elected to serve. Its all about them – not we. Balance the budget – eliminate their salaries and perks for a couple of months!!!
I think they should not be paid for atleast 5 years!
ALL OF THESE PERKS SHOULD BE CUT OFF. THEY WILL BE ONCE TERM LIMITS GO INTO EFFECT INCLUDING TERM LIMITS FOR ALL FEDERAL JUDGES INCLUDING SUPREME COURT JUSTICES. WE ARE BEING SCREWED TO THE WALL BY THESE WORTHLESS LEACHES ON THE PAYROLL IN DC. DC IS WHAT HAS TO BE VIRTUALLY SHUT DOWN LEAVING ON A SKELETON CREW TO KEEP THE MOMUNENTS OPEN AND CLEAN. ONLY THEN WILL AMERICANS BE ABLE TO PROSPER AGAIN.
You are on the right track!!!These leaches are not even satisfied with this they now are causing hard working Americans, Federal employees to lose 20 percent of their income from April through September. I as a GS 4 only make 10.00 an hour after taxes and insurance and they are going to take 2opercent of that away! I am facing homelessness or losing my car. I am livid they can cut American jobs but yet they get work done by Mexico to the tune of 50 grand for uniforms. They want to give 750 grand to Egypt, but take 85… Read more »
Yes it is time that the Federal government reined it the perks given to our representatives and return this country to fiscal conservatism. They have no problem spending money that does not belong to them. I realize that you may only make $10 an hour, but do your realize that since 2008 when many lost their jobs the Federal government never laid off any employees from the rank and file. We need to eliminate Lobbyists. When our fore fathers said we had the right to lobby our government they meant the citizens not paid lobbyists. Time to trim all government… Read more »
Nancy, I bet you are younger than 50. Medicaid is not the problem except like all things, those who abuse it. Medicare is not the problem except for those who abuse it. You are listening to propaganda from the government. Did you know that they do not keep your social security you pay into all your life in an account to pay for social security. They use it for whatever they need it for like subsuties to foreign governments for bases and such on their land and wars and such. No telling what because they don't account for it that… Read more »
You are so on the ball Sue.
they just do not care about the people that voted them in – and it is time they started to IMO
I voted only for "the new gal/guy" no incumbents. But look who came back. I did not vote party line, I wanted all new people in DC, but there are too many people who vote without actually knowing what/who they are voting for. My state (washington) has been screwed up royally, did we elect a Republican to see if a new face in the Governors mansion would be better, no, another Dem, and we are facing more taxes. WTF! Wake up AMERICA, put your vote to use! You want CHANGE? Change your voting habits, and FIRE those lazy jokers, who… Read more »
Like so many critics you are focusing in the chump change of the Congressional office. Where they make the real money is in trading on insider information, buying property "in the path of federal legislation", and the cushy benefits of providing preferred legislation for big donations and their grateful patrons. For example, when you he a Congressman crying about the minimum wage you will never hear him or her mention all the union contracts indexed to the minimum wage. Hmmm. As a governor of Arkansas Clinton was paid $33,000, but Hillary, at the Rose law firm got $500,00. Oh yeah,… Read more »
I did not realize you were a financial advisor. I am 92 years old, fixed income, no more investing and risking capital. Please remove my name from your web site. I am intereted in politics and the "perks" of congresss people interest me. Thank you for that info.
FIRE the bastards in CONGRESS!!! Anyone who lies to the citizens who elect them should be charged for saying things and giving people hope to get in office. This is not MY AMERICA!! To live the fat cat lives that they do is unconscionable. And the media need to have rules too. they should not report altered information, but the truth, I have known the media lies and turns the public in a way they benefit them since I was 16. I believe its called sensationalizing. Keep to the facts and keep their own opinions to themselves. Respect the position… Read more »
Congress needs a lesson in "lead by example".
How dose that Koo Laid taste Hard to support the worst we have ever had
If we had some worth supporting we would! When he will not even respect the flag, and National anthem! When Benghazi was going on he the Commander in chief was AWOL! He let those people get murdered. He claimed he would not do harm to middle class, but here he is for political sake doing this sequester as he wants everyone to blame the Republicans so next year in elections they will get a Democratic house. The Dept. of the Agriculture suggested doing different things so it would not be so painful for the American workers being laid off or… Read more »
Some what you are saying is incorrect. The Republicans in the House want to cut Social Security Cost Living, CPI. Replace it with a chain index that can be fixed each year to pay the lowest cost of living increase. They say they will not touch current retires. This is a lie. The chained index will start with current retires. SS increase have for the last 3 years been – year 1, $0 increase; year 2, $0 increase; year 3, 1.7% increase. SS retires go about .05 for all years. I never heard of a chained index until now. I… Read more »
I totally agree with majority of the comments on here that I have read. We are a family of 8 (4 kids in elementary school and 2 not old enough to go yet). Single income since it's insane to think of what it would cost for childcare. BEFORE taxes it's only $9 an hour. I make everything I can by hand and we are in the process of of adding additional space to our home so the kids can get out of the living room and a single bedroom. Everything possible is done either second hand/freebie find. I am one… Read more »
I have NEVER been more disgusted with Washington politicians. After witnessing the Republican "party of hate" approach to everything from immigration policy, tax reform, non regulation of banks and Wall Street I have never been more pro democrat. That is not to say the Democrats are all correct but at least the party policies attempt to include citizens in their solutions. Finally any party that allows Rush Limbaugh, John Sununu, and Mitch McConnell to represent is pathetic and out of touch. As voters we deserve this inability to govern as long as we continue to vote such indecisive assholes into… Read more »
I think both parties are despicable. We need immigration reform. All they do is fight and argue. The citizens that abide by the law are beaten up by it and immigrants that come here illegally are given a pass. They need immigration laws fair to all and then ENFORCE them.
Banks and Wall St need to be drawn and quartered.
Ahhh, Party that is the key word – they are there to party, not serve the people.
Democrat, Republican – all worthless, self serving thieves
Time to do house cleaning and get rid of all of them
robert cain have you read all the cities and state going to bankruptacy, they all need help. they all voted obama, and they are all democratic states. not repubs. you have to look at that seriuos. obamas is costing us billions by just going to talk shows and any shows that will have them. the democratic press that admire her iconic arms,dress bangs and everything slse. and for the president to be making out with his wife in public is unreal, demo reporters. WHILE HIM AND HILLARY IS LYING ABOUT BENGAZI. HILLARY WHEN TOLD IN CONGRESS ABOUT 4 AMERICANS DYING,… Read more »
c'mon are you serious it was republicans that put this country in the shape its in now…and neither rep's or dem's are willing to put politics aside to fix their mess…..
Are you kidding? after 4 years you still think the evil is just the Republicans? The problem is our political system. We allow the corruption from all parties and say "thank you" for doing such a great job! We need to cut the perks down, salaries down, and if the budget is not balanced when due, cut the pay! In a real world these people would not be allowed to stay in there jobs! The people need to take the power back and install term limits. EARN YOUR JOBS!!!
Pat, Can you still say its republicans after this the second term for Dems and all they do is spend. You must not have any children you are worry about paying for there spending. Our children will be paying back all this spending the rest of there live's. I think this country is now a bunch of sheep that like to be lead, at least 47% anyway. Also don't you read the news on all the failed attemps with our tax paying dollars, come on now have you seen any progress in Washington since this Admin took over or are… Read more »
I THINK THEY NEED TO FIRE THE BUNCH FROM PRES TO SUPREME COURT START OVER BUT ONLY WORKING PEOPLE NO LAWYERS AND ONLY 2 TERMS
you are one of the low information voters. If you think the republicans are responsible for the poor shape of the country. You are a pretty ignorant person.
It's obvious you are one of the many who are ill-informed about politics…….
Let me clarify, it's obious that Robert Cain is one of the many who are ill-informed about politics…..
Robert … your a fool … party of hate? Give me a break! I am not a Republican I am more of a Conservative but I do not like what either party has done and continues to do but if you are a Democrat … then it is the "pot calling the kettle black"!
Robert Kain: I totally agree with you. Good post!!
Robert Kain believes the Republican Party is pathetic in part by allowing Rush Limbaugh, John Sununu and Mitch McConnell to represent them…well, what about a certain liberal party that allows a person to "rule" this country who has a questionable background of associating with criminals (and still does), who may not be an American citizen, who hates the United States and has admitted that he will and is taking us down to put us on an equal basis with other very poor countries. Also has committed treason by apologizing to our enemies on behalf of America and ignoring and denouncing… Read more »
Sandra your a loser to believe the potus is not a citizen. Don't you think they did a million background checks on him. After reading that i knew you have been watching to much fox propaganda. Get with the rest of us on here & lets get something done about the congress. Stay on topic. Support your President, he's what more than 1/2 the U.S. voted for. Deal with it & vote in the next election
Out of curiosity, what, exactly, has Rush Limbaugh said that is untrue. Not, 'what have you heard from other people', but what have you heard him say 'from his mouth to your ears', in context, that is flat-out wrong? I ask because so many times when I have heard people rant about what conservatives have said, the complainer hadn't actually listened to the person themselves, they were just regurgitating angst that they picked up from the web, the mainstream media, or some other outlet, and their information had been edited and/or taken out of context so that the message came… Read more »
Well if you think that Rush Limbaugh is not a narrow minded Man..and does not care what is said..other than speak against anyone that has a different opinion! Than you are just as pin headed as he is! You have no interest in what actually is being said..and only hear what you want…and what others say will never change your mind! There is such a thing as common sense..of which is not being used by your party! Maybe enough is enough..get rid of the heated nonsense and just stick to lifes realities! :)
Robert, Have you ever read the Constitution? I am not too happy with either party either because neither are following the Constitution. However, the Republicans have tried to slow down the spending and made some effort to stick closer to the Constitution. The Dems are way out of line. In terms of the party of hate, it is the Dems that are doing the name calling and attacking citizens while sticking up for illegals, putting more people out of work and on welfare, and giving money to other countries that have vowed to destroying America. Get you head out of… Read more »
Include the citizens in their decisions…funny…..unless you mean welfare….immigration needs to be shut down…. period. We are up to our butts in illegals already and it keeps increasing and dragging our economy into the gutter with entitlements for them.
Indecisive? Mitch McConnell indecisive? I think not. He has been very decisive in his continuing crusade to screw the average American, as have been virtually all the Repugnantcans. Most of the Dems, on the other hand, have been cowardly in their inability to stand up for what is right. Why does Reid cave on the filibuster and on the assault weapon and large magazine ban, to mention a couple of issues? Why did Obama cave on the single payer option in the ACA? Why does Obama put the rightful social security benefits ("entitlement", my ass, unless one adheres to the… Read more »
"Why does Reid cave on the filibuster and on the assault weapon and large magazine ban"….because despite your personal beliefs, and those that are spoon fed to you by the Democrats, and the propaganda State run media, which cant be argued is the PR firm for the DNC and the hard core left in this country, millions of average American citizens wrote, called, and emailed their representatives and flatly told them they would be sent home if they supported much legislation. Thats why! The NRA? What is the NRA? According to the MSM, it is some boogieman that scares and… Read more »
I agree!
We get precious little for the unforgivable largesse that goes their way; give them less and we would not likely get less but how would be able to tell? If they're so important, why aren't there any impressive people in the legislative branch?
The only reason these current lawmakers ran for office in the first place was for the money. They never had an real intentions to do anything for the American public. It is all about making a name for themselves to be remembered in the history books and how much money they made in the process. I think all publicly elected officials should serve pro bono. It was their decision to run for office to supposedly help America. If they truly believed that, they would accept their positions that it is a public service to Americans, not a way to become… Read more »
They deserve healthcare while "in-service" and then medicare. They are civilians, like us. They should pay for their own vacations. Their residences. They should only be able to serve two consecutive terms. Pay for their own cars, clothing, hotels. If they are in another state they can stay at the nearest military guest quarters. And yes, they are only guests. They should not have a raise unless WE vote them a raise. They work for US. If we do not get a raise due to economy or due to job performance, same for them. They are pitiful. If we performed… Read more »
NOBU: I AGREE AND THEY SHOULD BE PAID BY THE HOUR AND NOT BY SALERY. AND NO OVERTIME
No overtime. Are you kidding. What overtime. There is no overtime when you only work part-time.
seasiren
I think you may be on to something. However, it will never happen. The American people are too weak or lazy to do anything but complain.
"Performance begets rewards"….meaning, if you don't get the job done, you don't get paid….term limits and then civilian "entitlements"…no double, triple, or quaduple retirement packages and retirement begins @ 65 minimum and it's social security only….no private insurance packages but only what the rest of us civilians get…see how quick they want to cut medicare then…another so-called "entitlement", and oh yes, did I say, term limits?
When the goverment stopped working for the people, and the people started working for the goverment, it has now developed towards a socialist party. There are more bad than good people in the Senate and House of Representatives. Pick a party, they both think more about party goals than what is best for the American people. We have no one to blame but ourselves, they tell us what we want to here; and we vote for them. A large percentage of the American people are just as greedy as the politicians, everyone wants more money and perks for doing less,… Read more »
I nned to send this to everyone on my e-mail list & you show no way to do it. How about some help with that??
yes, i think they should have to live like the rest of us. NO PERKS
You know the perks that Congress gets are a pittance in the scheme of things. If the perks were that great everyone would run for office. The real problem is that great, intelligent, reasoned people don't run and get elected to these offices. Great men have both vision and the ability to compromise. This country is in trouble because of party driven politics. We can pick 12 good people at random and decide a mans life in court, but 535 people chosen by us can't compromise, and find enough common ground to keep the one truly free government running. I… Read more »
I disagree with monies going into politicians hands, especially our monies. What these people need to do is fix the IRS for those people who had their identity stolen. Stop immigration
they are stealing our jobs. When I go to the hospital we have foreigners running the wards.
Where are our jobs promised??? Where are our monies that use to stay here in usa? Our cuts are going to the wars that are started by Republicans and Demoncrats. We need one party only for our country . How many politicians are involved with the stock markets?
s
Get rid of Obama first and they will all go away. Impeachment?
wake up and get real
Obama won the election fair and honest. You want to impeach him on what grounds. You want him impeached because he is a Democrat, Black, liberal and you hate him for these reasons. Do you know it cost millions to impeach. Impeachment stops Congress to take all their time on the impeachment. All other things come to a halt. Congress will have no time to work on any other matter. Remember when Clinton was impeached how daily work was stopped in the Congress. In the end he still was in office.
the insider trading is waive is horrible that these elected officials don't have to pay "anything towards their health is sickening "what a Union"
So what if they have to pay a pitiance for their healthcare insurance? Compare it to Obamacare and they have the greatest of the insurances. Why should they not participate in the Obamacare that they have deigned the common man to have? Perks and daily pay for travels are rediculous. They can merely shake hands with a city official or state oficial and claim it to be a buriness trip. Think we culd do that> I kinda doubt that even most CEOs can do that in their business dealings. We, seniors on S.S. do not get a raise, so why… Read more »
What would be really fun would be to require them all to punch a time clock to see how much time they actually spend at their jobs. I am imagining that most all would be fired in a short amount of time if they worked under the same rules as the average American worker. Let's get some Statesmen into Washington and get rid of the modern politician.
I agree that they should have to punch a time clock, but think it should be a highly regulated to recognize who is punching that time clock, like having a fingerprint to ID them. It would be so easy to let someone have our "time card" to punch you in. This happens in the private sector when ID cards are used, someone can keep your card overnight and punch you in the next morning so why wouldn't our esteemed senate think to do that?? We have to have them accountable for every penny they earn and spend. Their accounts need… Read more »
Just like they have staffers running ahead to punch elevators, they have a staffer clock them in too.
WHY DO I HAVE TO PAY FOR THEM ,WHEN I GET NOTHING
They say they feel our pain.!!!! Lets find out!!! Also AIR FORCE ONE and TWO. Except for emergency.And I don't mean VEGAS OR HAWAII. Eliminate books written on goverment time, That are offered as tax deductions and payed for by tax payers. Also speeches at universitys should not have to be payed for twice. Tax payers support them. Most are Political anyway. Let us submit the budget, Get it voted on. The fiscal cliff could be avoided!!! Lets take back AMERICA and re-establish fiscal responsibility. When a Sen. or Rep. retires send him home. Private citizens can lobby for a… Read more »
Start raising their full retirement age
They can pay for gas
you are missing the real bottom line, or are just afarid to admit it. IT'S CALLED TREASON, from the bush family orcastrating 911 to pass the patriot act, to the bush collusion in the deaths of the kennadys, dr. king and the bill of rights. it's treason and should be treated as such.
are you out of your mind
You forgot to mention the Bushes breeding sasquatches on their ranch in Texas and being responsible for Pearl Harbor.
Total BS, if the people that choose to run the country do not want to live by the same rules they mandate. I call BS. Captains of ships must abide by law, even if it means going down with the ship. Why do we tolerate such nonsense. Stand up, stand up. If you know the truth, speak it. The truth will set you free………
The law does not require the Captain to go down with his ship.
Maybe they could do the job they were elected for if they had to feel the pain of higher gas prices, higher food prices, higher insurance premiums, a car payment and car insurance, jailed for insider trading, pay for their own vacation, flights. meals and lodging. Who gave them these perks, not the American public that works hard everyday for everything and then have half of their paycheck going to taxes. You can bet your bottom dollar they would make the changes needed in this country if they had to pay for everything like we do. Every one of them… Read more »
Barabara; I agree the politicians live in a world with no connection to the reality of financial challenges and losses that most Americans experience. I would like to eliminate the perks; quite possibly would go a long way towards balancing the USA budget.
Term limits all government jobs, two and then a check of thankyou for say fifty dollars. No benefits after public service, they wanted the service make it a service then back to the real world you helped create.
Lets stop making kings and queens. I believe we left England in part for that reason. There has been no need for these folks to tighten their belts in this down turn and they need a reality check.
It appears to be unanimous. These scoundrels in Washington are supposed to be "public servants". What ever happened to that concept? I see no good reason why they should enjoy anything other than the conditions they set for everyone else. The problem is HOW to implement this universal public wish? Any suggestions?
Robert, I agree with you completely; how indeed can this insanity be stopped? I can do all the moaning and hand wringing that everyone else can but to what avail? How do we stop this??
start a petition to vote on eliminating state perks to start..i'd sign one right now
Our political system has become corrupt in part due to the fact that our representatives have the authority to manipulate their authority. They institute the laws for the people and hence they can make the laws governing themselves. Is it fair? NO But I don't see a change because they control the decisions and they have no intension of eliminating their benefits. What's happening now is a better understanding by the people. More people are getting involved and are speaking out. Unfortunately the complicated issues facing our government have been created by them and they are becoming more exposed. They… Read more »
It is time to clean house completely and start over with public servants who will serve the people. It is time to tell all the politicans in Washington to "Hit the Road Jack and don't come back." To all the politicians, "You all have one think in common with new born infants and that is you need to changed frequently and for the same reason."
The Senate should be forced to pay back there last four years of wages sence they haven't past a budget in four years. Politicians only have the power we the people give them. I believe they are out of touch because we allow them to be. After a tax increase in January Obama wants more,I'm not rich and my taxes went up. If you don't believe me look at your pay stub if your lucky enough to have a job, pay attention to social security tax up 2%. Are goverment spends to much and cutting benifits for congress, senate,and white… Read more »
OUR NO B**** CONGRESS, HAVE FORGOTTEN THAT WE PEOPLE, BENEATH
THEIR FEET ARE THEIR EMPLOYERS. WE AS THE PEOPLE SHOULD STOP THEIR PAY CHECKS
AND JOIN OUR SS PRO AND OUR MED PROGRAM. THEY ARE NO BETTER THAN THE HARD
WORKING TAX PAYERS
Isn't it a known fact by now that the american people (us) do not have any "cojones"? all we have is a big lousy complaining"whining mouth".. complaint, complaint, talk, talk talk; do nothing, do nothing; three hundred years being bamboozled and brain washed into thinking that by voting for this or that party, the problem will be fixed, that the vast wealth and resources of the country should and shall belong to all americans and to not just a few congressmen, bankers politicians, big industrialists.. did we not have enough already?? let's stop being sick and tire, stop being so… Read more »
This is ashamed what is happening to us in this country, what can we do about it besides nothing,
we give money to the world, what about are money to us, how can we get these congress men and senators and tea party guys out of office
Wouldn't it be nice if we all could vote ourselves a pay raise every year. Wouldn't it be great we could get paid to screw everyone for our own self interest. Interesting that these idiots get a pay raise automatically every year for doing what? The worst of these is the socialist government that is now in place. Steal from the rich and give to the people that do nothing. Why should they work when they get more by sitting on their asses. Then the vote to give to criminals. Illegals are criminals yet they get Social Security that they… Read more »
Tracey you are right, so stop giving money to people who do not like Americans, let them take care of their own country. All of that money could do a lot of good in America. I agree programs we have paid in all of our working lives are being given to people who never paid into it. Disability is being given to drug addicts, alcoholics, this is crazy. These are inflictions they have given themselves. If they do not test clean for drugs, alcohol, they get nothing. We have to test fro drugs to work but people do not have… Read more »
No vote even an overwhelming one against the perks of congress, would do anything to change it. the greatest aspiration a father would have, is to have their children run for office and gain a seat among those living in that higher dimension, so they could live the esplendid life of those fortunate ones; It is true that "we are all created equal."….till you get to Washington. It was very inteligently omitted.
Yes, yes yes, a total of 20 trillion times "YES!" I want to see words from Nancy Pelosi to the fact that she has turned her airplane back over to the Government Accounting Office now that she has no reason to have it at her beck and call. It is time she began paying her way through the system that she has been able to rifle those things into her daily life and making the tax payers pay for that perk. Plus, any other perks that the congressmen and women decide on their own to spend perk dollars that are… Read more »
iN OTHER WORDS ALL OUR POLITICIANS ARE ABOVE THE LAW . WHO WOULD HAVE GUESSED EVERY ONE OF THEM OUGHT TO HAVE A CELL BLOCK OF THERE OWN.
"We the people need to take the country back" "Vote these people out of office"
The people should of done it along time ago. And kicked there buts clean out of the White House and show them what hard times are all about. We the people need to fight back and take back our rights that they took from us, before its to late and they lose our country to China or Japan. People wake up, its time to take a stand and tell the assholes in the White House. NO MORE
When the light of the truth finishes exposing and burning away the "MILDEW", that American politics have become hopefully no one else no other individual, group or nation will ever attempt to mislead and misguide the people who "ALLOW" them the privilege to govern over them… most public officials are "cowards" who never had to do a hard days work to provide for their families they would rather work very hard at keeping the," lies" and" deception" going just long enough to ease away from the people with all the material and hypothetical financial wealth they supposedly have amassed hummm… Read more »
What needs to happen is that the members of the House and Senate give up these perks. They also need to live within there own means and not accept any outside money at all. We need to see every American with decent jobs and better apppreciation for the people in there own districts more jobs and less taxes. We also need to bring in the spending measure. By putting across the board taxes on everyone and make things amongst the people and American public. The education system needs work on and decent hourly wage all across this country. This big… Read more »
Iam totally ashamed and disgused with each and everyone of you for having the kind of perks we are paying for. I don't get a vehicle to go to work for paid by other tax payer / I don't get free flights or parking or mileage / a spending account /free gym / pension plan even close to yours / full retirement at 62 with no less 44% of my pay / $174,00.00 salary for about 3 days a week / free gas / per diam / free insurance or get to choose between 10 company's. BY THE WAY THIS… Read more »
i agree 100 % pay them only for the work they do….which might come to about 100.00 dollars a year if they even work that much
Why can't we vote on their pay when their approval rating drops to a certain point.
If they can't compromise and develop a budget, I say NO PAY…..NO BUDGET, NO PAY….AT ALL.
Join no label.org for more information. It's time to take our country back, to compromise on issues and develop a plan, not fight like little kids. Congress works for us!
If they had to personally experience paying for gas, fighting with health insurance companies for promised benefits, scrimping for that treasured vacation, and working a full work week, they might make better choices for the rest of us.
Tie thier wages, benefits and retirement to the middle class and they will stop backing the rich and stealing from the rest of us and they will start looking out for the middle class
Above The Law?
So why do WE keep re-electing them? Let's do something about it and quit talking about it!
it hard not to elect . Honest men and women don't get respected votes. Who have the people in mind. The asses pay to get their way. Like John Banger I wish he just get fired and every one else who think only of their wallets. not the people they work for.
I am really fed up with these career politicians and their screwing of the people. All perks need to stop, health care needs to be like our and not ours like theirs(which will never happen). No government trip, they get 401k not pension and by the way they need to stop all federal, state and municipal union pensions also and convert to 401k. Heath care needs to be something you pay for yourself or through your employer, so stop this crap called obamacare. Worst thing they ever thought of. And now finally I will say it and get hell for… Read more »
THE COMMON ENEMY OF EVERY FREE MAN/WOMEN IS HER/HIS GOVERNMENT=AND THIS STORY IS LIVING PROOF =P.S. THEY CAN ALSO PASS BAD CHECKS AND NEVER HAVE TO ACCOUNT FOR THEM
It is our fault, period. We elect these bozos,and donot think twice. Term limits should have been in effect. No elected offical should be given a lifetime job of doing nothing. And by nothing I mean nothing. Perks should be earned. This is just plain CRAZY. Like I Said we deserve this cruel and inhumane treatment.
So based on all that has been said here, what actions are needed to correct the problem?
We need two constitutional amendments….first one for term limits for congress and second one for a balanced budget.
I think we should have those two amendments, too. How do we get those?
I just want to why in hell they get full social security. they don't even pay into it in the first place!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Words like "theft," "stealing," and "hypocrisy" have suddenly in between the lines. Anybody else see those words?
Where's the verb in that sentence? "…have suddenly ______ in between"
Have suddenly what?
Here is the question: all the politicians, no exceptions, are crooks or morons, they supposed to serve the people and not themselves and their friends, the corruption in the US is everywhere because the government is corrupt from the top down to the stupid. So the question is: why do we, hard working and law abiding americans, allow to be governed by these crooked politicians, caring more about hiding their scandalous behavior than working for the good of americans. They should not be paid for their services and should only have one term, and no pension, then we might have… Read more »