He selfishly tries to rationalize that he personally will benefit by a state mandated minimum wage increase, without regard for the businesses that will be impacted, or may be forced to close altogether.  Its easy for a business owner who won't be negatively impacted to conclude that the wage hike "costs will be easy to absorb", by all other businesses.  

Maybe BigBang's comment sounds a bit inconsiderate, similar to you sounding condescending and thinking you know what's best for everybody else.   Gosh, are you telling me that I should think of Gary Crum before I write anything?