But the thing is, increasing the office budget — for inflation or any reason — sends a terrible message. Not only is it out of step with the private sector. It's even out of step with the rest of the public sector. Just ask Boise City Hall or the state Department of Health and Welfare, or any other agency that has been forced to cut staff jobs. The Idaho congressional offices all report brisk or increased casework — thanks to the recession, and the cumbersome task of helping agencies and grant applicants sort through the $787 billion economic stimulus law. But I’m just not buying the notion that the staffs really need more money to handle this caseload/Kevin Richert, Idaho Statesman. More here.

• Vote: Simpson, Crapo support increase; Risch, Minnick oppose
• Idaho congressional staff: A look at the numbers

Question: Should congressmen be expanding their offices during a recession when the private sector and even other public entities are cutting back?