RUMOR CHECK: WHAT EXACTLY DID THIS GOP REP. MEAN WHEN HE SAID HE’S ‘STUCK’ IN CONGRESS MAKING $172,000?

For Americans still struggling in a tough economy Rep. Phil Gingrey’s (R-Ga.) recent comments about lobbyists and his own six-figure salary may, on the surface, seem odd, unfair and patently insensitive. But providing some context actually shows that his proclamations were possibly rooted in sarcasm and an effort to ensure Congress is not afforded special rights and privileges.

At the least, the media’s treatment of his alleged statements hasn’t been the fairest.

“[Congressional staffers] may be 33 years old now and not making a lot of money,” he purportedly said, according to an account published by National Review. “But in a few years they can just go to K Street and make 500,000 a year. Meanwhile I’m stuck here making $172,000 a year.”

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