Speaker Pelosi would take big pay cut if Republicans take back the House

By Christina Wilkie - 09/21/10 06:00 AM ET

Call it a redistribution of wealth, Washington-style.

If Republicans win the House this fall, House GOP leader John Boehner (Ohio) stands to get a pay raise and Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s (D-Calif.) salary would be cut.

Pelosi now makes $223,500, while Boehner brings in $193,400.

Of course, Pelosi cares far more about the power of the gavel than the extra $30,100. After all, Pelosi’s not exactly hurting for cash.

According to The Hill’s analysis of financial disclosure forms filed last summer, the Speaker’s net worth rose more in 2009 than any other lawmaker’s, from $13.7 million in 2008 to $21.7 million in 2009.

Boehner, meanwhile, reported a net worth of $1.8 million. Not exactly chump change, but nearly $20 million short of Pelosi’s.

So what would Boehner do with the extra money? Help pay down the federal deficit? Pad his 401(k)? Play a few more rounds of golf?

His spokesman declined to comment, but ITK wants to know how you think Boehner would best spend $30,100, if he has the chance.
Send your suggestions to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , and we’ll print the best ones Thursday, along with a few suggestions from Boehner’s colleagues in Congress.