No I don't believe so they are. Here is a link to something that says more on it. I hope this helps!
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Speech_or_Debate_Clause
One of the most powerful bankers of his era, J.P. (John Pierpont) Morgan(1837-1913) financed railroads and helped organize U.S. Steel, General Electric and other major corporations. ... Morgan used his influence to help stabilize American financial markets during several economic crises, including the panic of 1907
In general, when anything is "merit based" it means that it relies strictly on the knowledge and ability of the person in question, instead of special privilege such as family connections. <span />