TULSA, Okla. (AP) — Newly elected Oklahoma Congressman Kevin Hern says while the government is partially shut-down he's donating his congressional salary to veterans groups.

Hern, a Republican, was elected Nov. 6. Because he filled a vacancy he took office shortly afterward and has been paid about $5,000.

Hern told the Tulsa World he "felt like the responsible thing to do" is donate the money and called the shutdown "crazy."

Donations have been made to Folds of Honor, Wounded Warrior Project, Coffee Bunker, AMVETS, Green Country Veterans Association, Disabled American Veterans, Soldier's Wish,...