General

Cruz asks Senate to hold his salary during DHS shutdown

Source: The Hill March 24, 2026 at 5:58 PM (3 weeks ago) Texas Senate Race

Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) announced he is requesting his congressional salary be withheld during the DHS shutdown, attributing the closure to Democrats. The gesture is largely symbolic as lawmakers continue to receive their salaries during government shutdowns under current law.

Key Points

  • Cruz asked the Senate Financial Clerk to hold his salary until the DHS shutdown ends
  • Cruz blamed Democrats for causing the shutdown
  • The move is a political statement, as members of Congress are legally paid during shutdowns