Trump on $15 Minimum Wage: Hawley Plan in Doubt
Donald Trump is hesitant on Senator Josh Hawley‘s plan to raise the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour. The former president stated he needs to discuss the proposal with Hawley before committing.This comes as 31 states already surpass the federal wage levels. Trump expressed varied opinions, noting potential impacts on businesses. Hawley advocates for the increase as a “populist position” to aid working people, aligning with his recent efforts on economic populism. Hawley’s co-sponsored legislation on credit card interest rates and his vote against a cryptocurrency bill further highlight his stance. Stay informed with News Directory 3 for updates. Discover what’s next in the evolving political landscape.
Trump Unsure on Hawley’s $15 Minimum Wage Proposal
Former President Donald Trump has yet to commit to supporting a proposal from Sen. josh Hawley,R-Mo., to raise the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour.
“I haven’t seen it,” Trump said Wednesday when asked about Hawley’s plan. “I’d have to speak to Josh. He’s a very good friend of mine. That’s interesting that Josh did that. You have to think about that one.”
Hawley, along with Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt., introduced the Higher Wages for American Workers act, which would more than double the current federal minimum wage of $7.25.
Currently, 31 states, including Missouri, have minimum wages exceeding the federal level.
“Some peopel agree with it. some people don’t,” Trump said. “You know, some people say it really turns away business, restaurants, clothes and a lot of things happen. Other people agree. I’d have to speak to josh — he’s a good guy.”
Hawley has defended the minimum wage increase as a “populist position.”
“If we’re going to be a working people’s party, we have to do something for working people,” Hawley told NBC News. “And working people haven’t gotten a raise in years. So they need a raise.”
Hawley’s support for a higher minimum wage aligns with other recent efforts to promote an economic populist agenda.
In February, Hawley partnered with Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., on legislation to cap credit card interest rates at 10%.
On Tuesday, Hawley also voted against a cryptocurrency regulation bill, siding with progressives who argued it favored institutional investors.