1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to support fiscal responsibility and smart regulations that strengthen the middle class, the backbone of the American economy. Sustainable economic growth is only possible when wages keep pace with inflation, markets remain competitive, and prosperity is shared in a way that fosters innovation, consumer spending, and long-term stability. The federal minimum wage has failed to keep pace with inflation and productivity for decades. Had it kept up with inflation since 1968, the minimum wage would be over $25 per hour today (Economic Policy Institute). Instead, it remains stagnant, leaving millions of working Americans struggling to afford basic necessities despite corporate profits reaching record highs. I urge Congress to implement a ten-year plan to gradually adjust the minimum wage to reflect its true value, based on inflation and productivity growth. ✔ Annual adjustments based on inflation rates plus a fair merit increase ✔ Incentives for small businesses to ease the transition ✔ Protections against sudden economic shocks through phased implementation A wage that keeps up with the cost of living benefits everyone—more consumers with disposable income means more spending, more business growth, and a stronger overall economy. To correct this, I urge Congress to enact legislation requiring: ✔ Companies that exceed inflation-adjusted profitability by a significant margin to provide wage increases at every level that are at least the inflation rate. ✔ Executive compensation structures to include metrics tied to broad workforce wage growth, not just stock performance. ✔ Tax penalties for corporations that suppress wages while significantly exceeding inflation-adjusted profits. If businesses are thriving beyond inflationary growth, their workers should thrive too. It is an insult to the American workforce when CEOs and shareholders see record gains while employees struggle to afford basic housing, healthcare, and education. I urge you to champion policies that: ✔ Reinforce fair market competition through strong antitrust enforcement. ✔ Implement a ten-year plan to restore the minimum wage to inflation-adjusted levels. ✔ Ensure that highly profitable companies provide merit-based wage growth at all levels. ✔ Support fair wages and labor protections that keep money flowing in the economy. ✔ Hold corporations and the ultra-wealthy accountable to pay their fair share. Let’s build an economy that works for everyone, not just a select few, ensuring America remains a land of opportunity for all.