I think the USA Today article was poorly written. It clearly states that lawmakers wealth came from outside the realm of being a legislator (being rich from private sector or marrying someone wealthy). It then contradicts that by claiming their high net worth is due to Congressional salary. But it is not. Yes a Congressional salary is 3 to 4 times average net worth, but even $200k is not millionaire.

One factor I see though is lodging. Housing prices in the DC area are extreme. Most lawmakers have mortgages back home and the current salary would make sense if they were renting lodging when in Washington but many do not. They sleep in their offices.

I have suggested banning them from sleeping in offices and that a secure dormitory of small efficiency apartments be built to house the 535 congress people, complete with conference rooms etc. Lawmakers salaries could then be cut. Also cut their staff. Define how many staffers a lawmaker gets and build a dorm for them as well.