Voters in red states approve $15 minimum wage measures despite political divides

In recent elections, voters in Missouri and other red states approved measures to raise the minimum wage to $15 and guarantee paid sick leave, despite opposition from local business groups. These results contrast with the continued success of Republican candidates in statewide offices. Democrats have struggled to maintain a clear economic message, with many voters unsure of their priorities. While raising the federal minimum wage was a key campaign promise in 2020, the Biden administration has not prioritized it, leading to disillusionment among working-class voters. The recent ballot measures highlight a shift in voter priorities, suggesting that Democrats may need to reconnect with economic issues to regain support. Meanwhile, a similar minimum wage initiative in California is facing challenges, indicating potential difficulties for liberal policies even in traditionally blue states.