Senators approve withholding their own pay during government shutdowns

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senators have unanimously approved a resolution to withhold their pay during government shutdowns. Lawmakers said the measure approved Thursday (May 14, 2026) would discourage future funding standoffs after a series of record-breaking shutdowns. The proposal requires the secretary of the Senate to hold senators’ salaries during shutdowns and release the money once funding resumes. It’ll take effect the day after the Nov. 3 general election but doesn’t apply to the House. Republican Sen. John Kennedy, the bill’s sponsor, says the measure ensures lawmakers share the burden faced by unpaid federal workers. Senators earn an annual salary of $174,000, but many are independently wealthy.