Washington, DC – U.S. Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., MD (R-Southwest Louisiana) today announced he will not accept his Congressional salary if the threatened government shutdown occurs.

“The House passed a continuing resolution yesterday to cut $12 billion and continue to pay our service men and women,” Boustany said.“Democrats are acting irresponsibly, and the President has vowed to veto the bill if it reaches his desk. The bottom line is we MUST cut spending. Our country cannot continue on the fiscal path we are on, and Democrats must realize this. I will continue to work with our leadership to prevent this from happening.

“In the event of a shutdown, I will not accept my Congressional salary. It is reprehensible Democrats will not even ensure our troops’ pay is maintained. I hope we can reach a resolution to prevent this abomination from happening.

“The problem is spending, and until the Democrats do what the American people are demanding, a deal cannot be reached,” Boustany said.“If the Senate does not act, I will call on Senator Harry Reid to step down as Majority Leader for not fulfilling his responsibilities.” Boustany previously voted for several continuing resolutions to fund the government, as well as H.R. 1 with $61 billion in spending cuts to conclude the unfinished business left by the Democratic majority under former Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Additionally, he signed a letter calling for Reid’s retirement as Senate Majority Leader.

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