Jared Hudson: Members of Congress Should Forgo Their Paychecks Until Government Reopens
“If you can't do your job and keep the government open, you don't deserve a paycheck“—Jared Hudson
From the Hudson campaign
Navy SEAL veteran Jared Hudson on Thursday issued a direct challenge to every member of Congress: don't take a paycheck until the government reopens.
"Chuck Schumer and the Democrats have made it their mission to hold the American people hostage for their policy gains. There should never be a time when they can willingly shut down the government to get benefits for individuals who shouldn't be in our country in the first place. While they keep wining and dining amongst the D.C. elite, they are leaving the American family out to dry," Hudson said.
"As someone who's worn the uniform and lived through deployments, I know what sacrifice looks like. Families across this country live paycheck to paycheck, and when Washington fails, it's hardworking Americans who pay the price. Federal employees are furloughed, small businesses lose contracts, and everyday citizens are forced into unnecessary uncertainty. Meanwhile, members of Congress keep cashing checks like nothing happened. That is wrong — flat out wrong," Hudson continued.
Hudson emphasized the hypocrisy of politicians getting paid while those on the front lines go without:
"Think about it. Our military personnel, our Border Patrol agents, our law enforcement officers, our air traffic controllers - men and women who put their lives on the line for this country every single day - are expected to keep serving without pay. I've stood shoulder to shoulder with men who would give their lives for this nation. To see Congress still getting paid, claiming it's necessary for their livelihoods, while these heroes go without? That is unconscionable."
Hudson urged Republicans and Democrats alike to lead by example:
"If you can't do your job and keep the government open, you don't deserve a paycheck. Congress needs to feel the same pain it inflicts on the American people. Until the doors of government are open, the wallets of Congress should be closed."
This is not a partisan issue, but a matter of principle:
"We need accountability in Washington. Members of Congress must put country before self-interest. No work, no pay — it's that simple." Hudson's call comes as Washington remains mired in political stalemate, while everyday Americans - including those in uniform protecting our nation - are left carrying the burden.
Jared Hudson is a former Navy SEAL and Co-founder of Covenant Rescue Group, which both conducts and trains law enforcement officers to conduct anti-human trafficking operations. He is currently running for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Tommy Tuberville. The Republican primary will be held May 19, 2025.
To learn more about Hudson’s campaign, visit his campaign website, HudsonForAlabama.com or follow him on Facebook, X, Instagram or Truth Social.
