My husband is a GS-11. He doesn’t make anything near $150,000. My husband started at the VA because he wanted to do what he could for the veterans (he is retired military) and make VA care better. Everytime I come onto FR, I feel like it is a sin that my husband is a federal employee.
Don't worry about the reactionary echo chamber. Yes, there's lots of dead weight in government jobs, but there are also many people who work very hard in government jobs. I'm certain it's no different than the private sector except who you get your paycheck from.
I am a federal employee too, and don't make $70,000 a year. I am a hit and run poster for the most part - only during slow days and during my lunch brake or if I decide to miss my 15 minute coffee break.
I supported the wife and daughter and paid off my house about two years ago. I hope to have something to retire on, if 0/bummer doesn't mess with MY money.