For too long, we've watched the citizens of this great country face homelessness and hunger while politicians grow wealthier, seemingly unaffected by the ramifications of their decisions. This disparity is personal. Families across our nation are struggling daily, making impossible choices between putting food on the table or keeping a roof over their heads. It's disheartening to see leaders, elected to serve, becoming indifferent and disconnected from the everyday realities of the people they are meant to represent.

A shift is long overdue. A radical change can ensure that those who choose to lead our nation are there because of a genuine desire to serve and not for personal gain. Making positions within the US Congress voluntary could be the catalyst for this change. By removing financial incentives, we can ensure that only individuals with true dedication, integrity, and a passion for public service step into these roles.

There's precedent for voluntary public service in other areas, such as local boards and non-profit organizations, where individuals contribute their time and expertise out of a sense of duty and commitment to their communities. Transforming congressional positions into voluntary roles will attract candidates who are sincere about serving the public and not motivated by salaries or benefits.

Furthermore, this change would help bridge the gap between the leaders and the led. Leaders without the cushion of a substantial salary would be more in tune with the challenges faced by the general population. This realignment of priorities could lead to policies that more accurately reflect and address the needs of everyday Americans.

It's time for a government "by the people, for the people," to truly embody its meaning. Let's make our leaders representative of the best of us, not the most privileged. Sign this petition to make a difference in the way our government operates. Promote integrity, empathy, and genuine public service by supporting our call to make service in the US Congress a voluntary position.

We, the undersigned citizens of the United States, believe that serving in Congress should be a true act of public service, not a lifelong career or financial opportunity.

Members of the House and Senate are elected to represent the people — not to enrich themselves through taxpayer-funded salaries, benefits, or pensions. In a time when Americans face rising costs and financial pressure, it is only fair that our national leaders serve out of duty and principle, not for pay.

We therefore petition the United States Congress to begin the legislative and constitutional process necessary to make service in Congress voluntary — or limited to a modest living stipend.

This reform would:

Reaffirm that leadership in Congress is a temporary civic duty, not a profession.

Reduce wasteful spending on congressional salaries and perks.
Encourage participation from citizens motivated by genuine service, not personal gain.

Public office in Congress should be an honor to hold, not a career to profit from.

We urge our representatives to take this step toward restoring trust, accountability, and integrity in American governance.

Signed,

The Undersigned Citizens of the United States.