Posted by Jeff Kurzon, candidate for US Congress in New York’s 7th Congressional District

How can we raise the minimum wage when corporations resistant to it are able to buy direct access to our leaders? McDonald’s Corp. spent more than $500,000 in 2012 on federal campaign contributions. In 2013, they have spent close to $2,000,000 on lobbying. And what do they get in return? A wage where their workers need to depend on government spending  to support themselves and their families.

The argument to raise the minimum is obvious, but this is worth a read if you still need to be convinced of “a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work.” I’ve said it in the past, and I am saying it again – let’s end good for some, bad for all. Instead of any political machine, instead of any lobbyists or PAC contributions, we will win next June because you are on our side. Some facts from Upworthy and CSMonitor:

• 96% of restaurant workers do not earn paid sick days – forcing 76% to work when sick.
• Only 17% of retail workers know when their day off is – forcing them to live much more stressful lives.
• Nearly 60% of low wage workers are over 30 and do not earn enough to make ends meet, let alone for savings.
• McDonald’s CEO earns $9,247 per hour while the average retail store worker earns $7.73.

Something Fast and Simple

The cost to all of us is real – we are literally subsidizing large public corporations to the detriment of us all. We allow McDonald’s and corporations like it to buy direct influence in Washington from entrenched elite politicians who care more about their own re-election than the well-being of their countrymen. Will you stand with us and contribute any amount today – and ask a friend to do the same – to help us end the final quarter of 2013 strong? The election is just over six months away and your action today is crucial.