In a gesture of solidarity with federal workers affected by the ongoing government shutdown, Maryland Congressman Johnny Olszewski has decided not to take his salary. WMAR-2 News reported that Olszewski made his announcement in Towson, describing the shutdown as unnecessary and calling for lawmakers to return to the negotiation table.
Olszewski's stance was accompanied by a criticism of the current presidential administration for what he referred to as "weaponizing" federal projects. His remarks include a specific mention of threats to funding for the Francis Scott Key Bridge. Similarly, Senator Chris Van Hollen has opted out of receiving a paycheck during the shutdown period. As the shutdown trudges on, nearly a quarter of a million Maryland federal workers find themselves directly affected.
Declining a salary appears to be a shared sentiment among some of Maryland's congressional delegation. WBAL-TV reported that, along with Olszewski, U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen also requested that their pay be withheld during the shutdown. "Members of Congress should be treated just like federal employees and the nation's troops," Olszewski mentioned, a sentiment reflecting the sacrifice many currently withstand without their usual income.
Amidst financial apprehensions cascading through federal families, Olszewski also brings to light the tangible impacts on healthcare. He expressed concern about the expiration of Affordable Care Act subsidies and the resulting rise in healthcare premiums, which could imperil coverage for those reliant on Medicaid. "I think people understand that people who rely on health care through Medicaid are going to lose that, but I don't think people understand the thousands of dollars that people who are now getting their health care through the exchange (are) going to experience if we don't address these premium hikes," Olszewski said, as reported by WBAL-TV.
