Blumenthal Statement On President’s Visit To Connecticut To Push For Federal Minimum Wage Increase

(Washington, DC) – Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) issued the following statement in advance of President Obama’s visit to Connecticut to push for a federal minimum wage increase:

“I applaud the President for his consistent and courageous advocacy on this critical issue and for making his case directly to the people of Connecticut. The President's support – speaking particularly to the Connecticut business community as leaders nationally – will add to the overwhelming support for the minimum wage increase. I'll be there in spirit, strongly supporting a raise in the minimum wage as the fair and smart step for America. Putting more money in consumer pockets means stronger sales, adding to output and creating economic growth and jobs.”

 As a result of the U.S. Senate being in session and votes occurring throughout the day, Blumenthal is unable to attend President Obama’s speech today at Central Connecticut State University in New Britain. Last month, Blumenthal participated in a roundtable with U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Thomas Perez to push for an increase in the federal minimum wage. He is a co-sponsor of the Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2013, a bill sponsored by U.S. Senator Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) that would increase the federal minimum wage to $10.10.