Question

The U.S. Department of Labor reports that of the roughly 155 million people employed, just over half are paid hourly, but less than 5% earn the minimum wage or less; 95% of wage earners earn more. And of those earning the minimum wage or less, 25% are teenagers living at home. If so few people are affected by the minimum wage, why does it often seem to be such a contentious political issue?

Answer 1

Answer) Minimum wages have been a very big political issue in every country for many years,its supporters and opponents have different theories throughout the history,in the face of given numbers,especially the number 5%,most of the challengers for forming government or opposition parties will see this number as hiding behind the true figures,they will say that minimum wage needs to be more with rise in inflation,once minimum wage increases,people falling below minimum wage will increase significantly,whereas government will see this figure as a good number and not a big issue,in fact opponents of increase in minimum wage will argue that increasing minimum wage will lead to more unemployment and lot of people not trying to get a job.Above arguments show that minimum wage has its takers and opponents as well.In terms of politics,it is a tool which can help politicians connect with classes as well as its supporters/opponents,moreover this issue can be connected to issue of unemployment,use of resources,moreover it is used as a comparison yardstick by comparing minimum wage to other countries' minimum wage and using to one's advantage.

In light of above points,we can see that it doesn't matter if so few people are affected by it,what matters is its history,what matters is the way you see it and politics is all about perspective which gives this issue significant importance in politics.

Answer is complete.Thank you!