The vice president of the U.S. does not earn the second-highest salary among government officials, despite occupying the second-highest office in the executive branch of the federal government. The president earns $400,000 per year, while the chief justice of the Supreme Court earns $300,000. Associate justices on the Supreme Court also earn more than the vice president, who currently earns $235,100 a year. The last time the vice president’s salary was increased was in January 2019, with a raise of $4,400 from $230,700.
A pay freeze has been in effect since 2019, meaning that only $235,100 of the vice president’s salary is currently payable, even though it was set at $284,600 for 2024 according to an executive order on pay adjustments. Presidential historian Douglas Brinkley, a professor of history at Rice University, believes that the vice president’s salary is reasonably commensurate with the duties of the role. Brinkley also points out that American presidents and vice presidents are paid well compared to other world leaders, with generous perks such as Secret Service protection and access to private air travel.
Vice presidents do not always have a clearly defined job, which can make it difficult to argue for a substantial pay increase. Brinkley notes that it would be challenging to ask for a promotion from American taxpayers when the role’s responsibilities are downplayed. However, vice presidents are entitled to perks like Secret Service protection and private air travel. They also have the potential to earn significant sums after leaving office through speaker fees and book deals. Overall, while the vice president’s salary may not be the second-highest among government officials, the position comes with various benefits and opportunities for income beyond the government salary.
In conclusion, the vice president of the U.S. does not earn the second-highest salary among government officials, despite holding a significant position in the executive branch. The salary for the vice president has remained at $235,100 since 2019, with a pay freeze in effect. While the salary may not be the highest, past vice presidents have had the opportunity to earn substantial amounts through speaker fees and book deals after leaving office. The role of vice president may not always have clearly defined duties, which can make arguing for a pay raise challenging. However, the vice president does receive certain perks and benefits, such as Secret Service protection and access to private air travel. Overall, while the vice president may not be the highest-paid government official, the role does come with various opportunities for income and benefits.
