Raising Illinois' minimum wage has emerged as the first significant campaign issue for candidates hoping to become Illinois' next governor. And it could take center stage throughout the year.
Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn says he wants to raise the $8.25 hourly rate to at least $10 by year's end. But a coalition of business groups that worry raising the rate would kill jobs say they'll try to stop the efforts.
Next month there'll be an Illinois Manufacturer's Association forum where organizers say minimum wage will be a main topic.
All four Republican candidates are set to attend. That includes businessman Bruce Rauner who was forced last week to defend his shift on the issue, from wanting to cut the rate to supporting an increase under certain circumstances.
