Some tasks included connecting with local reporters and coordinating messaging with partner political outfits such as EMILY's List and the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. That helped her boss' official congressional office save money it could then spend elsewhere, but it did nothing to help her own financial situation. Congressional staffers have used social-media accounts such as Dear White Staffers to spotlight professional burnout, inadequate pay, long hours, diversity failings, and caustic bosses. For example, one of the rules says a congressional staffer working in a congressional office must step outside the office to do campaign work. Or, if there is compensation offered — which isn't guaranteed — they may desperately need the additional money to supplement the low pay for congressional staff."

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