PEGGY MARKILLIE, Richland

Congressional pay:

Senate majority party leader -- $193,400 (Will increase to $194,400 on March 27).

Minority party leader -- $193,400 (Will increase to $194,400 on March 27).

Speaker of the House -- $223,500 (Will increase to $224,500 on March 27).

Majority leader -- $193,400 (Will increase to $194,400 on March 27)

Minority Leader -- $193,400 (Will increase to $194,400 on March 27)

A cost-of-living-adjustment increase takes effect annually unless Congress votes to not accept it. Members of Congress receive a generous retirement check for life.

It makes one wonder where cuts might be made to help our fiscal problems.