Yeah, I understand your point. I think I'm communicating why someone has a personal incentive to run for congress under our system since they won't be receiving lobbying money. I'm hoping the electorate isn't under the belief that congressional salaries are negotiable. I don't see why people can't feel passionate about this project and also be compensated for improving a system that is rife with inefficiencies.
"professionals in tech that wouldn't mind making $170k to do literally nothing but proxy votes for their district"
This description of your first candidates is what I find cynical. They should feel like true believers. Not opportunistic passive income collectors.