In middle-America, the negative effects of sequestration are being felt more and more every day: an airport tower is closing in Frederick, Maryland. Schools on military bases are considering a four-day school week. Workers at missile-testing fields are facing job losses.
But Congress isn't debating a replacement to reverse the devastating cuts to hard working Americans. Lawmakers are in recess until April 8.
While Congress enjoys another much-needed vacation, one individual is stepping up to help those who are hurting: President Obama.
In a statement released to the New York Times, a White House official said, “the president has decided that to share in the sacrifice being made by public servants across the federal government that are affected by the sequester, he will contribute a portion of his salary back to the Treasury.”
Five percent ($20,000) of the president’s annual salary will be given back to the government. The White House selected the figure based on the level of spending cuts to non-defense agencies.
This gesture motivated similar acts from Democratic Sen. Mark Begich and Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel.
These small acts are certainly not enough to fix the financial pain being felt throughout the country, but they seem to be a symbolic step in the right direction.
Republicans are noticeably quiet about the issue, declining to comment about making similar sacrifices.
Your move John Boehner!