I don’t believe that either the Executive or Legislative branches of the federal government should be paid during government shutdowns. I don’t care about the perception of blame for a shutdown. As far as I’m concerned it is the fault of both parties.
Why is this important?
These branches of government are paid during shutdowns because they are considered “essential”, but the impact is felt by “non-essential” civil service workers and the military. It also effects programs that serve and support low-income families and their healthcare. I believe that the politicians need to feel the impact of their decisions. I realize that career politicians are generally wealthy enough that they won’t really feel it, but their immediate staff will.
