Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker posted on X, stating that the federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour equates to about $14,000 a year and that no one can survive on it. He noted that Illinois has raised its minimum wage and called the increase long overdue elsewhere. The post, which includes a video, has drawn significant attention and a range of reactions online.
The attached video is a news clip of Pritzker speaking on ABC NewsLive, in which he discusses the need to raise the minimum wage, notes that many people can barely survive on double that amount, and mentions related policy ideas such as universal healthcare. The footage shows him from the chest up against a city skyline, with on-screen graphics identifying him and the segment’s topic.
Pritzker’s accompanying text repeats key lines from the discussion, that the federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour amounts to about $14,000 a year and is insufficient for survival, including the fact that people can barely survive on double the federal minimum wage amount. The video does not show real-time events or new footage but reuses an earlier interview.
Public Responses Across Illinois and Beyond to the Governor’s X Post
Some users agreed with the call to raise wages, while others questioned the approach or its potential effects. One commenter wrote, “Yep, raise the wage, then prices go up to afford this, making America go into inflation that leads to total recession from all the higher costs!”
Another stated, “Hard to argue with the reality, $7.25 an hour isn’t a livable income in today’s economy. At the same time, raising wages should go hand in hand with managing costs and supporting small businesses so the solution is sustainable.”
Several responses focused on the purpose of the minimum wage. One said, “Minimum wage was never meant to be a living wage. It’s for 16-year-old fast food workers. If you’re 55 and working a minimum wage job, you have more problems than shitty wages.”
Another added, “Yes, idiot, let’s keep doing away with entry-level jobs for young people to learn how to show up on time, follow instructions & learn how to better themselves to get a better job.”
Other comments were more critical of the governor or the timing. One asked, “Why is Prickster suddenly putting in so much effort now? He’s been in office for too long.” Another noted, “You had your chance—JB used scare tactics against Black and Brown communities, and now he wants to help who? If we make more money, JB will just take more.”
The governor’s post has reignited discussion about minimum wage policies at both the state and federal levels. As reactions continue to accumulate on X, the clip serves as a reminder of the persistent debate over wages, living costs, and economic priorities across the country.
