Bayh & Lugar got it right

For the ninth time since 1997, House Democrats proposed and House Republicans have blocked a stand-alone minimum-wage increase. Indiana Senators Evan Bayh and Dick Lugar both voted in support of this bill; however, the 52-46 vote was eight short of the 60 needed for approval. One day earlier, House Republican leaders made clear their intention to not allow a vote on the issue, as they feared it might actually pass.

Republicans often contend that minimum-wage jobs are primarily held by teenagers, or are merely "entry-level" jobs. While those classifications may sometimes fit, the reality is that many of these jobs are the only source of income for poorer and diasadvantaged families. At the current rate of $5.15 per hour, a full-time worker would earn a paltry $10,700 annually, or $6,000 below the poverty line. An increase to $7.25, stepped in over a two-year period would greatly ease the stress on these families without significant impact on business.

The conservatives continue to align with business interests that oppose any increase in the federal wage floor. They also generally support undocumented alien workers. Why wouldn't they? Their very souls are owned by corporate America, which thrives on making huge profits on the backs of the poor and working classes. The cent always holds more value than the citizen with these folks.

The progressive beleives in organized labor, and the rights of all workers to collectively bargain for their greater good. To fight to retain a fair wage and a decent standard of living for all workers. To ensure that adjustments are made to allow for inflation and the cost of living. To insist on adequate health insurance, family benefits, and secure retirement-plan options. To hold the corporations accountable for all of these rights, and to guarantee that all hard-working Americans are treated fairly by their employers.

I fully support a corporation's right to make a profit. As long as it's made after it's employees have been paid a fair day's wage and benefits. That's the true American way. Make a quality product or perform a quality service, and adequately compensate your people for those results.

CEO's making millions while workers are laid off, and profits turn into losses. . .I'm not quite sure what that should be labeled, but it doesn't fit my idea of the American way.