MoiLee, there could be another reason why Senators McCain and Hirono will not retire or resign to take care of their late stage cancers.  It could be money.  Hold on, Klastri.  I did not say it is the reason; I said it could be.  Most people are unaware that when a senator dies in office, the widow or widower or other next of kin is paid a death gratuity in the amount of one-year’s compensation, which would be about $200,000 today.  It is a very nice perk the Senate established for itself.  I do not understand what makes Senators so special to deserve such payment.  Next of kin of Federal civilian employees are paid death gratuities of a few thousand dollars, but only when the employee dies as a result of an injury sustained in the performance of duty.  I questioned Schatz about the Senate death gratuity practice three or four years ago and he replied with a simple explanation that it was appropriate.