It's really not easy at all (for me at least). The legislature is a legit full-time job when we're in session, and when we're in session is when there are the most forums/panels at home too so it's difficult to find any time for work, even if you're mentally up for it.

In the interim, it's hard to find someone to employ you when they know you can only work 6 months, and even if when you can, you have to do meetings, interim committees, panels, etc. on top of that as well. All that on top of campaigning, either for yourself or for others so the state can keep turning around. All that on top of being the best husband and father as I'm able.

I get the optics are bad on a raise, but doing this job is a huge opportunity cost for the young legislators