Kamala Harris Advocates Minimum Wage Hike Amid Tight Race with Trump

Democratic presidential hopeful Kamala Harris has taken a firm stance on increasing the U.S. federal minimum wage, calling the current $7.25 an hour rate 'poverty wages.' Speaking on Monday, Harris underscored the importance of wage reform, particularly for full-time workers facing financial hardship.

The vice president's comments come as she attempts to delineate her economic policies from those of her Republican counterpart and former President Donald Trump. Trump's recent campaign stop in Philadelphia brought the minimum wage issue into sharp focus, as he sidestepped a direct stance on raising wages in the fast-food sector.

Both candidates have outlined economic strategies targeting voters ahead of the November 5 elections. Harris has promised a middle-class tax cut, whereas Trump focuses on reducing overtime pay taxes. Their economic platforms also align in supporting tax eliminations on tips, reflecting a nuanced competition for voter support.