WSJ: State Votes on Wages Could Boost Kerry

[question everything]

Democrats Hope Measures To Raise Minimum Pay Increase Turnout From Backers

By GREG IP
Staff Reporter of THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
August 19, 2004; Page A4

Proponents of a higher minimum wage, frustrated by federal inaction, are turning their attention to the state level, and their efforts to tap voters' angst over the quality of new jobs could affect the presidential race. In November, voters in two key battlegrounds, Nevada and Florida, will be asked to raise the minimum wage in their states. Those on both sides of the initiatives believe the measures could increase voter turnout among Democratic-leaning African-Americans, Hispanics and low-income workers -- and possibly boost Democratic nominee Sen. John Kerry's showing against President Bush.


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This year, polls show, weak job growth, the low pay of many newly created jobs and a widening gap between rich and poor are weighing on voters' minds. While many economists believe a higher minimum wage deters employment of low-skilled workers, the issue has wide political appeal, and even many business-friendly Republicans are loath to openly oppose an increase.

Adjusted for inflation, the minimum wage is at its lowest level since 1955, and at its lowest level relative to the average wage since 1949, according to the liberal Economic Policy Institute. Those pushing for an increase blame Republican control of Congress... On the local level, though, dozens of governments have passed "living-wage" ordinances, compelling businesses in their borders to pay significantly more than the federal minimum wage. Of the states that have set a minimum wage higher than the federal rate, some have done so after ballot initiatives... Many businesses have reacted to "living-wage ordinances" by contesting their legality or persuading friendly state governments to pre-empt them.

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Opponents of Florida's initiative suspect sponsors also want to boost turnout for Mr. Kerry. A poll done on behalf of the Florida campaign by Washington, D.C., polling firm Lake Snell Perry & Associates found 81% of respondents in favor, and a higher likelihood of voting as a result of the question, especially among African-Americans...In Nevada, Secretary of State Dean Heller and Attorney General Brian Sandoval, both Republicans, are contesting the validity of the ballot proposal before the state supreme court on state constitutional grounds. It would raise the minimum wage to $6.15 but make an exception for employers providing health benefits.

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http://online.wsj.com/article/0,,SB109287047490395378,00.html

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