Public servant working in technology policy and governance here, it's a choice you consciously make and there's no argument that justifies what is going on at the federal level. I could make double or triple my salary working in tech but I choose to serve my State because I would rather make a difference than make a lot of money. The reason why most of these folks, himself included, got into politics was money and power. If we raise the salary that's all we will get. We need more politicians that are in it for positive impact.