[general_re]

What amendment cements the pay rates of Federal judges?

No amendment - Article III, section 1.

"The judicial power of the United States, shall be vested in one Supreme Court, and in such inferior courts as the Congress may from time to time ordain and establish. The judges, both of the supreme and inferior courts, shall hold their offices during good behaviour, and shall, at stated times, receive for their services, a compensation, which shall not be diminished during their continuance in office."

It's to - ahem - keep the political branches from using the pay of judges to force them to adopt a particular view. Essentially, to prevent exactly what you're proposing ;)

[Arthur Wildfire! March]

Ok. So we could call for an oversight hearing by the House. Make Federal judge in question squirm under the limelight a little, at least.

[AndrewC]

Fancy meeting you here!

Wages may be diminished but won't affect those presently sitting.

I assume that Congress has the power to get rid of everybody save the SCOTUS. And quite possibly has the authority to limit that court to one judge.