Inflation still exists, though Wall Streeters would have us believe otherwise, and for a lawmaker expected to keep up two residences (not to mention appearances), $133,600 doesn't go as far as it used to. The votes, 220-207 Tuesday in the House and 55-45 Wednesday in the Senate, were close but only in the way that vulnerable lawmakers get cover from their more secure counterparts. As Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell (R-CO) pointed out, lawmakers who don't want the raise can return the money to the Treasury.
We'll let you know just as soon as someone does.