Yes, I know that there are more pressing issues as we enter 2017, but this constant debate about the minimum wage in America is just wearing me out.  The catalyst for this thought was yesterday’s demonstrations outside several McDonald’s stores in the Tampa area, one of which held me up for nearly two minutes !  I do understand, and empathize with, those that accurately point out that the minimum wage has not kept pace with inflation in my lifetime.  Today’s hourly minimum wage buys 30% fewer goods than it did in 1968.  And only those from Birdsboro try to make the argument that a $15 minimum rate will not reduce overall job opportunities.  Most employers are entrepreneurs (even McDonald’s franchisees) who take a direct shot to income from any increase in direct costs, and will not hesitate to invest in automation.

So why doesn’t everyone just admit that the great debate is just a political football, and just stop it !  Democrats like to talk about how they represent the little guy, even if fewer will actually be employed at $15 an hour.  Conservatives fail to yield even a bit on the reality of household costs in America rising faster than the minimum wage. Please note that at no point in this piece have I used the phrase, “living wage”, as I consider it a Proglibocrat  affront to all those who have invested heavily in their own education and self improvement.

What I propose is the obvious, simple solution – just index the minimum wage to inflation, to the price of a basket of goods that everyone purchases regularly.  Make the change permanent, and take the issue out of the politicians’ hands as a tool to buy votes.  Make them debate and solve real and difficult problems that face us all.    WHAT THE HECK !