Babauta Cuts Salary Again, Cites Shared Sacrifice with Government Workers
SAIPAN – Senator Celina R. Babauta (D – Saipan) says she will once again reduce her salary, aligning herself with the austerity measures and pay cuts affecting government employees.
“This is not the first time I have taken this step, and it will not be the last,” Babauta said. “Ever since I took office, I have consistently reduced my salary whenever government employees faced reduced hours or pay. Leaders should never exempt themselves from the hardships endured by the very people they serve.”
The senator said her decision is rooted in fairness and accountability, emphasizing that government workers are “the backbone of our public services.” She added, “When they are asked to make sacrifices, leaders must also carry that burden. Anything less is hypocrisy.”
As she has done in the past, Babauta pledged to direct her voluntary reduction toward programs benefiting public school students. “Education is the foundation and the future of any economy. Our students are the most important investment we can make for the future of the Commonwealth,” she said.
Babauta described the move as both symbolic and practical. “This voluntary adjustment reflects the realities faced by government employees and their families,” she said. “We cannot claim to lead with integrity if we shelter ourselves from the same struggles our people endure. True leadership means standing with the people in good times and in hard times.”
