Quinn's dinner on minimum wage challenge? Graham crackers

Gov. Pat Quinn says his experience trying to live on the minimum wage for a week has meant graham crackers for dinner.

Raising the state’s $8.25 hourly minimum wage to at least $10 an hour has been a re-election focus for the Chicago Democrat. Quinn is facing a tough November challenge from Republican Bruce Rauner.

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Quinn told reporters Tuesday that he’s opted for water instead of iced tea while eating out. He made the comments after talking to Chicago students returning to school for the first day of classes.

Other governors have tried similar challenges previously.

Quinn says he’ll spend $79 this week on food and other expenses. His campaign says that’s the estimated amount left for minimum wage workers after transportation and housing costs.

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