6 Jews Among Richest Members of Congress

The Hill newspaper, which covers the comings and going on Capitol Hill, just came out with its list of the 50 wealthiest members of Congress. 

You might expect a Rockefeller to top the list since his name is synonymous with great wealth, but Sen. John D. Rockefeller (D-VA) is only #4 at $83.8 million.  His actual wealth, much of which was inherited, is probably much greater but reporting requirements often conceal more than they reveal.

Topping the rich list is Rep. Darrell Issa (R-CA) at $356.4 million; he made much of his money through his Viper anti-car-theft system.

Six Jewish lawmakers are on the list:

5. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) $76.6 million

7. Rep. Jared Polis (D-CO) $60.2 million

9. Sen. Diane Feinstein (D-CA)  $41.6 million

21. Rep. Alan Grayson (D-FL)  $16.7 million

27. Rep. Nita Lowey (D-NY) $12.8 million

36. Rep. Brad Schneider (D-IL) $9.9 million

The actual wealth of all these is probably much greater than reported here because Senators and Representatives are required to provide their data in a range and not with precise figures; only a very few provide exact details.  The Hill report is based on the 2012 financial disclosure forms and these numbers are at the low end of the range reported.  Several of the top 50 made the list thanks to wealthy spouses.

Republicans outnumber Democrats 29-21, and the House outnumbered the Senate 37-13.

The base salary of a Member of Congress is $174,000 plus a very generous benefits package.