To: The United States Congress

We, the undersigned, call for a reform in the compensation structure for members of Congress. Specifically, we propose that the salary of each member of Congress be set to match the average salary of the district or state they represent. This change will ensure that our elected officials are more closely aligned with the realities of the people they serve, fostering accountability, empathy, and a renewed commitment to public service.

Why This Change is Necessary

 1. Align Incentives with Constituents’ Well-Being

Currently, members of Congress earn a base salary of $174,000 annually, far exceeding the median household income of the average American, which is around $74,580. By tying congressional pay to the average salary of their district, representatives would have a direct financial incentive to improve the economic conditions of their constituents. When the people thrive, so do their representatives.

 2. Restore Public Trust in Government

Trust in Congress is at historic lows, in part due to the perception that members are out of touch with the struggles of everyday Americans. Limiting their pay to the average income of their district would demonstrate that they are committed to serving, not enriching themselves.

 3. Reinforce the Spirit of Public Service

Serving in Congress is a privilege and responsibility, not a pathway to wealth. Earning the same as the people they represent would remind members that their role is to advocate for the common good, not personal gain.

 4. Foster Economic Accountability

Members of Congress should experience the economic realities of their constituents. Linking their salary to their district’s average income would encourage them to prioritize policies that promote local economic growth, job creation, and wage increases.

Benefits of This Proposal

 • Increased Accountability: Representatives would be motivated to improve economic conditions in their districts, as their own salary would depend on it.

 • Reduced Financial Disparities: Wealthier districts would not be disproportionately advantaged, as pay would directly reflect local conditions.

 • Symbolic Leadership: Members of Congress would lead by example, showing they are willing to share in the economic challenges faced by many Americans.

Additional Measures

To ensure the integrity of this policy, we propose the following:

 • Ban Outside Income: Prohibit members of Congress from earning money outside their official salary, including from lobbying, consulting, or investments such as stock trading.

 • Financial Transparency: Require members of Congress to make their finances public to prevent illicit earnings or conflicts of interest.

 • Periodic Review: Adjust congressional pay annually based on the most recent data on average salaries in their districts.

Conclusion

This petition is not about punishing our representatives but about fostering a stronger connection between Congress and the American people. By aligning congressional pay with the average salary of the constituents they represent, we can create a government that is more empathetic, accountable, and focused on the well-being of its citizens.

We urge you to support this initiative to make Congress more representative of, and accountable to, the people they serve.

Sign this petition to demand a government that works for all Americans, not just the privileged few.