Voter dissatisfaction with Congress is currently unprecedented. Constituents feel disenfranchised and income inequality between representatives and citizens contributes to differing priorities. Average Americans have little voice in their own government.
I would propose that the 27th Amendment to the Constitution – which keeps Congress from being able to randomly raise their own salaries – be modified to reflect these concerns.
Congressional salaries should be set to the median household income in their own state, as per the data collected by the US Census. Cost of Living increases would be applied at the same rate as Social Security. Salary equality with constituents will create alignment between voters and representatives, as well as minimize influence of lobbyists.