Texas Democratic U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico is calling for a dramatic increase in the federal minimum wage, saying $15 an hour is not enough and proposing more than doubling the long-standing $7.25 rate during a recent Houston event.
Talarico made the remarks Wednesday at a meet-and-greet at Mikki's Soul Food Café in Houston's historic Third Ward. He argued that the failure to raise the minimum wage in nearly 20 years is "criminal" in the wealthiest country on earth, highlighting struggles of full-time workers who cannot afford rent, food, energy, and transportation. He shared the story of a grandmother supporting grandchildren with special needs who faced eviction, emphasizing that the U.S. cannot claim to be a moral nation while allowing such hardship.
The proposal comes in the closely contested Texas Senate race, where pay and affordability issues are front and center. Texas follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25 with no higher state standard. Talarico's position contrasts sharply with Republican nominee Ken Paxton, who has opposed federal wage hikes, including suing the Biden administration over a $15 rate for federal contractors, warning it would harm the economy and employment.
The comments underscore broader debates on economic policy ahead of the November election. Talarico, a state representative, has positioned himself as a champion for working families, while critics argue significant wage increases could burden small businesses and lead to job losses or higher prices. Supporters counter that raising the wage helps reduce poverty and boosts local economies through increased spending.
With Texas' diverse workforce and growing cost-of-living pressures in cities like Houston and Dallas, the issue resonates with many voters. No specific legislative details on the exact proposed rate or timeline were outlined in the event remarks, but the call adds to ongoing national conversations about wage policy.
KRLD will continue tracking developments in the U.S. Senate race and economic issues affecting North Texas families.
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