South Iowa News

With a potential government shutdown approaching, Representative Zach Nunn of Iowa's 3rd District has asked that his congressional pay be withheld until the government is fully funded again. In a statement released today, Nunn emphasized the importance of lawmakers sharing in the consequences faced by federal workers during funding lapses.

“If Senate Democrats force our troops to work without pay, Congress should be held to the same standard,” said Rep. Nunn. “I’m calling on my colleagues in the Senate to pass the House’s continuing resolution instead of holding our government hostage over a wishlist of radical spending demands.”

The U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 5371 on September 19, 2025. This continuing resolution would fund federal operations through November 21, 2025 and includes provisions for military personnel, veterans, and essential services. The legislation aims to keep government offices open while Congress works on full-year appropriations bills.

Despite this action by the House, nearly all Senate Democrats voted against moving forward with the measure, which has led to increased tensions between chambers as the shutdown deadline nears.

In a letter addressed to Catherine Szpindor, Chief Administrative Officer of the House, Nunn wrote: “It is wrong for Members of Congress to collect a paycheck while the federal government is shut down and millions of hardworking Americans face uncertainty. I am therefore requesting that… my pay be withheld until legislation has taken effect to fully fund the government and end the shutdown.”

Nunn warned that if an agreement is not reached soon, families in Iowa could face significant challenges due to disruptions in federal services.

A copy of Rep. Nunn’s letter is available online.