How was over Half Sue Ellens Paycheck taken?

So she says she is being paid $37,500 a year. Paid twice a month...

Her Check would be $1562 on payday. Yet her check was for $735. Which is about 47% of her pay.....How in the world is taxes and retirement that much?

$37500 in 2023 is about $86,000 in todays dollars would only be taxed at most after federal, state (CA), Fica at 27%....Which means Sue ellens Pension would be 20% which seems insanely hight.