The last year has been full of discussion about the growing disparities in pay in the United States. But there is at least one sector where wealth is going up instead of down.

That sector?

Congress.

An article for the New York Times reports that members of Congress’ earnings have continued to go up during tough economic times, causing some to question their effectiveness.

The fact that rich people are in Congress isn’t usually that big a deal. But when Congress struggles mightily to take care of the economic business of the country — from the recent payroll tax extension fight to the debt limit fight — it starts to seem pretty evident to the average, everyday voter that members really don’t understand the economic problems their constituents face.”

Can rich members of Congress really represent the average American?