Democrats pushing for a higher minimum wage often point to fast food workers and others struggling to get by - some on as little as $7.25 per hour.

First, though, they're out to help themselves.

The party has put questions on the ballot in five states asking voters whether the minimum wage should be increased. It's part of an effort to motivate younger people and others in their base to vote on Nov. 4.

In Illinois, a non-binding question just asks voters their opinion and wouldn't actually raise the wage.

Democratic U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin said he urged party leaders to put it on the ballot because the issue is "a winner with everybody in our state."

The measures are found elsewhere with high-stakes races, including Alaska and Arkansas.