Mitch McConnell’s recent extended disappearance from the Senate floor, missing for an astounding 94 days while still drawing a full salary, is a glaring example of a broken system. During this period, while collecting his paycheck funded by taxpayers' hard-earned dollars, McConnell has consistently voted against legislation like paid Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), deeming it unnecessary for the American worker. Yet, he and his staff have happily accepted considerable compensation—a staggering estimated $2 million during his time incapacitated, with no productivity required.

This is an injustice. Our hardworking citizens are expected to clock in daily and perform to earn their income, with no guarantee of a safety net should they need time off. Meanwhile, senators who are absent for prolonged periods or on recess are unjustly rewarded with their full salaries. This is not reflective of an accountable or fair representation of their constituents.

Furthermore, senators like Marjorie Taylor Greene, who may be coerced or bullied into servitude obstructive to the public interest, continue to generate an income, regardless of their contribution to public welfare. This raises the crucial concern of responsibility and accountability for our public officials.

It's time to amend this deep-rooted issue. We need legislation that ensures senators’ salaries are suspended during periods of extended absence without legitimate cause, just like millions of Americans could face the equivalent of being "out of office." This policy should also address those leaving office after serving minimal time yet still entitled to cushioned retirements that far surpass the benefits of ordinary American citizens.

The solution is fair and straightforward: no work, no pay. It holds senators accountable to those they represent and aligns their working conditions with those of the everyday American. It’s the fairest way to ensure that taxpayer money is used only for active and dedicated service to the people.

We urge Congress to draft and pass legislation instituting these practices, making sure stagnant or absent senators are not profiting from a system in desperate need of reform. The Senate only worked 202 days out of the year in it's first year of it's 119th Congress. In it's second year, they've logged only 136 days in session so far. After a break of five weeks, they came back for two days, and are on break again, until after the midterms in November! The targeted final adjournment on December 18, 2026. If they worked every single day (minus holidays) between the midterms and 12/18, they would only be adding another twenty-seven days, totally a measly 163 days worked this year. That's less than 44% of the year! Could you work your job that little and still keep getting paid your full salary and benefits? It's time to hold our politicians to a higher standard.

Join us in calling for this much-needed change. Sign this petition and demand accountability from our elected leaders. Together, we can foster a system where fairness, transparency, and dedication to public duty are at the forefront.