In a letter sent last week to House Speaker Dennis Hastert, R-Ill., Elizabeth Dole urged the defeat of the proposed presidential pay raise.
"After carefully reviewing the issues raised by Congress' proposed pay raise for future Presidents, I have concluded that such a proposal is ill advised," Dole wrote. "While I believe presidential compensation should reflect the importance the American people hold for the office of the presidency, I also believe that when all other forms of compensation are taken into account, the current level of pay is certainly adequate.
"While most public attention is focused on the chief executive's $200,000 salary, presidents and their families enjoy tax-free, cost-free housing, extensive domestic and global free travel, and a large entertainment budget. In addition, Presidents receive large pensions after leaving office. Perks include Camp David, a bowling alley, a putting green, movie theaters, tennis courts and a swimming pool. The value of these benefits adds up to millions of dollars annually. Therefore, I do not believe present presidential compensation should be increased."
The New York Times reported Sunday that other presidential candidates "seem almost indifferent" to the proposed salary increase, which if enacted, would raise the President's pay to $400K. Gore spokesperson Melissa Ratcliff: "Al Gore has spent his career in public service to help people, not to go after a pay raise." Bill Bradley held "a similar view"; Bradley spokesperson Tony Wyche: "You don't run for this job for the annual salary. I think we should leave it up to Congress." George W. Bush feels "it's the job of Congress to decide." Lamar Alexander, through spokesman Bo Harmon: "I shouldn't help to set the salary I will recieve as President." Steve Forbes opposes a salary increase, as does Gary Bauer.
In an editorial published Monday, Newsday argued that "nobody seeks the presidency for the money. And many Presidents were wealthy before they took the job. But penuriousness in compensating its top elected official is unbecoming to a great nation."