senate pay raises 1/30/09

So we hear all the bearchesting about how insulting and arrogant the Wall Street Masters of the Universe are because of the Big Bonuses & million dollar jets, which is a valid point, BUT what about the senate getting a $4700 raise this week?

If its a matter of principle and ethics that Senator McCaskill & the President eloquently point out, then shouldn't the Senate not take the pay raise or just turn it back over to the government. If they take it and then donate it to a non profit, then they not only make money by getting the tax right off but that donation is fodder that can be used in their re election campaigns. see the viscous circle go round and round, round and round...............