• Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley has introduced a bipartisan bill to raise the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour, a significant departure from traditional GOP positions and part of his populist economic agenda. While advocates highlight its potential to address wage stagnation, critics warn of its impact on small businesses and hiring practices.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley, a Republican, has introduced a bipartisan proposal to raise the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour, a significant shift in the ongoing national debate over wages and economic equity. Partnering with Democratic Sen. Peter Welch of Vermont, Hawley’s “Higher Wages for American Workers Act” would more than double the current $7.25 per hour minimum wage, which has remained unchanged since 2009.

The proposal, introduced last week, comes as federal wage policy remains a hot-button issue, with advocates arguing it’s long overdue and critics warning it could harm businesses. Hawley’s stance represents a surprising departure from traditional GOP positions on wage increases, reflecting his broader push for a populist economic agenda.

“If we’re going to be a working people’s party, we have to do something for working people,” Hawley told NBC News. “Working people haven’t gotten a raise in years. So they need a raise.”

Mixed Reactions and Economic Concerns

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Hawley’s proposal has drawn mixed reactions from across the political spectrum. President Trump, when asked about the bill at the Oval Office, signaled uncertainty. “I haven’t seen it. I’d have to speak to Josh. He’s a very good friend of mine,” Trump said. “Some people say [a wage increase] really turns away business, restaurants, clothes—lots of things happen. Other people agree. I’d have to think about that one.”

Currently, 31 states, including Missouri, already require higher minimum wages than the federal baseline. Advocates see this bill as a step toward addressing wage stagnation and income inequality, especially for low-income workers in states where the $7.25 minimum still applies.

However, critics argue a sudden wage hike could pressure small businesses and affect hiring practices. “For small businesses, a $15 minimum wage is a massive adjustment,” said Marion Steele, a small restaurant owner in rural Missouri. “We support paying workers more, but we need gradual solutions, not sudden mandates.”

A Broader Populist Push

Hawley’s minimum wage proposal fits into his broader populist agenda, which includes working with progressive figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders on economic issues. Earlier this year, Hawley and Sanders co-sponsored a bill to cap credit card interest rates at 10%. He has also parted ways with GOP colleagues on cryptocurrency regulations, siding with progressives like Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Sanders in opposition to a bill considered favorable to institutional investors.

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Hawley’s efforts reflect a growing trend within parts of the Republican Party to reframe itself as a champion of working-class Americans, even if it means crossing traditional ideological lines.

Why It Matters

The proposed wage hike reignites a larger conversation about the role of federal policy in addressing income inequality and economic opportunities. As inflation and the cost of living continue to rise, the debate over wage standards will deeply impact communities across the nation.

What do you think about the proposal to raise the minimum wage? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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