Kentucky Democrat Alison Lundergan Grimes says increasing the federal minimum wage would be at the top of her agenda if she's elected to the U.S. Senate.
Grimes said in a release that a higher minimum wage would raise the income and spending power for tens of thousands of Kentucky families.
The issue presents a stark contrast between Grimes and Republican Senate Leader Mitch McConnell, who is seeking a sixth term this year.
McConnell says a higher minimum wage would force businesses to reduce jobs.
A Democratic push to boost the federal minimum wage to $10.10 an hour is seen as a long shot in Congress this year. President Barack Obama made a push for the increase in his State of the Union speech.
Grimes is the Democratic front-runner for the seat held by McConnell.