WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — Two Indian American members of Congress announced they would forgo their salaries during the ongoing federal government shutdown. Representatives Suhas Subramanyam of Virginia and Ami Bera of California announced on October 1, as the shutdown entered its first day.
The government shutdown began at midnight after lawmakers failed to reach a funding agreement. This marks the 15th shutdown since 1981. Hundreds of thousands of federal employees have been furloughed, while essential workers such as TSA agents and immigration officers continue working without pay.
Under the U.S. Constitution, members of Congress continue to receive their salaries during government shutdowns. Article I, Section 6 provides a permanent appropriation for congressional pay. While lawmakers have proposed changing this system, no law has been passed to stop congressional salaries during shutdowns.
Subramanyam and Bera’s decision to decline their pay highlights the financial struggles faced by federal workers and contractors during these closures. Their move has drawn attention as a rare act of solidarity with constituents impacted by government shutdowns.
Subramanyam represents Virginia’s 10th District, which includes more than 36,000 federal workers and contractors. He said he would not accept his congressional paycheck to show support for those affected by the shutdown.
“Government shutdowns are devastating to Virginia families and small businesses,” Subramanyam said in a press release. “While Republicans force this shutdown and federal workers and contractors go without pay, I will not accept a paycheck and will continue to stand up for the men and women who protect our communities.”
The congressman called the shutdown avoidable. He criticized Republicans for failing to pass a budget and reiterated his support for legislation that would suspend congressional pay during shutdowns. Subramanyam also backed expanding benefits for federal workers and contractors affected by funding lapses.
Bera, representing California’s 6th District, also requested that his salary be withheld. In a letter to House Chief Administrative Officer Catherine Szpindor, he wrote, “Members of Congress should be treated just like all other federal workers and servicemembers forced to go without a paycheck.”
He asked that his pay be withheld until lawmakers reach an agreement to reopen the government. Bera reinforced his stance on social media, writing on X: “Today, I formally requested that my pay be withheld until the federal government reopens. While our troops and federal workers are forced to work without pay during a shutdown, Members of Congress still get paid. That’s not right.”
Federal employees and contractors are among the hardest hit by government shutdowns. Many face delayed paychecks, uncertainty, and financial strain. Essential workers continue to perform their duties without compensation, while non-essential staff are temporarily furloughed.
The decision by Subramanyam and Bera brings national attention to the issue of congressional pay during shutdowns. Their actions may pressure other lawmakers to consider similar measures or support legislation that would suspend congressional salaries during funding lapses.
Public opinion on government shutdowns remains largely negative. Many Americans view them as a sign of political dysfunction.
