I've always wondered about this. These are people who we elect to do a job - one that we expect and need them to do well. I wonder what would happen if their base salary was something higher than current - perhaps $300k. They receive the maximum healthcare coverages available to the majority of Americans. Pension is set at $100k/year at retirement, no strings attached.
BUT - In exchange, you'd have to agree to some very restrictive governance while in office. Example:
- No trading of specific investment vehicles, you may invest a maximum of ($x) per year in the following options (ETF, Treasuries, etc.). This goes for any immediate family members.
- Congressperson's income can only consist of the US Government salaries. Any income from previous book deals, consulting, etc, must go into a blind trust that can only invest in the aforementioned investment options.
I wonder if that is enough of an incentive to still attract sharp minds while perhaps incentivizing them to work more for the people and less for themselves.
BUT - In exchange, you'd have to agree to some very restrictive governance while in office. Example:
- No trading of specific investment vehicles, you may invest a maximum of ($x) per year in the following options (ETF, Treasuries, etc.). This goes for any immediate family members.
- Congressperson's income can only consist of the US Government salaries. Any income from previous book deals, consulting, etc, must go into a blind trust that can only invest in the aforementioned investment options.
I wonder if that is enough of an incentive to still attract sharp minds while perhaps incentivizing them to work more for the people and less for themselves.