Bernie Sanders on Minimum Wage

Bernie Sanders consistently argues that the federal minimum wage is a "starvation wage" that must be raised to a living wage, most recently proposing an increase to $17 an hour over several years. He contends that in the wealthiest nation, working 40 hours a week should not leave an individual or family in poverty, noting that the current federal floor has lost significant purchasing power since its last increase. He supports this position by highlighting that this raise would benefit tens of millions of workers, disproportionately women and people of color, and serve as a strong economic stimulant by putting money directly into the hands of those who will spend it on basic needs.

His legislative efforts, such as introducing the Raise the Wage Act, also target the elimination of subminimum wages for tipped workers, those with disabilities, and youth workers, seeking to ensure all earn the full proposed minimum. Sanders points to overwhelming public support and successful ballot initiatives in various states as evidence that raising the wage is both morally right and economically sound. He contrasts these efforts with record corporate profits and executive compensation, framing the low wage as an unacceptable injustice that Congress must address immediately, referencing historical precedent for his sustained fight on this issue.