WASHINGTON -- Although facing likely rejection by the Republican-majority Congress, President Clinton yesterday proposed raising the minimum wage by 90 cents over two years, to $5.15 per hour.
"The only way to grow the middle class and shrink the underclass is to make work pay," Mr. Clinton said. "And in terms of real buying power, the minimum wage will be at a 40-year low next year if we do not raise it above $4.25 an hour."
The proposal's likely fate was symbolized when not a single Republican lawmaker -- despite weeks of courting by administration officials -- joined the president at a ceremony in the White House Rose Garden.
Most Republicans, citing several studies and backed by business groups, believe it would result in a net loss of jobs and raise inflation. Democrats cite studies disputing those conclusions.