Cuomo Hits The Road To Push $15 Minimum Wage Plan

ALBANY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Gov. Andrew Cuomo started a statewide bus tour, continuing his push to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour.

Cuomo embarked on his road trip Tuesday in a recreational vehicle emblazoned with the words "Drive for $15.''

The Democratic governor held three appearances, beginning in New York City and ending on Long Island as part of the effort.

Cuomo delivered remarks alongside labor leaders who support his proposal, which is now before lawmakers.

Cuomo says a higher wage will improve the lives of working families around the state. The increase would be phased in over several years.

Business groups oppose the move, which they say would raise prices and force companies to reduce employee hours or positions.

On the national stage, presidential candidates are talking about progressive policies such as minimum wage and paid family leave. Democrats tend to support the issues, and Republicans typically oppose them.

But what do voters think?

Cuomo thinks he knows, WCBS 880's Peter Haskell reported.

"I think Americans are progressive people, look at the word, it's progressive, they want progress," Cuomo said.

When asked if the election is a referendum on progressive politics, Cuomo responded, "If it's Hillary Clinton versus Donald Trump, I believe Hillary Clinton is going to win and that'll be an affirmation of progressive politics in this nation."

Meanwhile, the governor says he has given "zero thought" to running for president in 2020.

(TM and © Copyright 2016 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2016 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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