Millions of American workers just got a pay raise, thanks to the efforts of the new Democratic Congress and minimum wage supporters across the country. On Tuesday July 24th, Democratic lawmakers, activists, and working families gathered on Capitol Hill to celebrate this momentous occasion. To loud cheers, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and dozens of their colleagues in Congress hailed the first minimum wage increase in a decade. The celebration was a powerful show of support for America's working families. As Senator Reid said, "Today, hundreds of thousands of Americans will have a little more in their next paychecks to help them better afford basic necessities like food, clothing, day care, health care, education and retirement. While much more needs to be done for America's workers, raising the minimum wage is an important first step toward once again giving working people a square deal and a fair shot at achieving the American Dream." The minimum wage increase is a terrific example of what can be achieved when the Democratic Congress and millions of citizens across the country work together. With continued hard work, there will be many more celebrations like the this one. |
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