McDonald's shareholders approved an executive pay plan at the company's annual meeting despite protests over standard worker's pay.
The vote came a day after more than 100 demonstrators seeking better pay for McDonald's workers were arrested.
Nearly 94% of shareholders voted in favour of the plan, which determines chief executive Don Thompson and management's pay.
Last year, Mr Thompson was paid a total of $9.5m. He is reported to have told the crowd that McDonald's pays fair and competitive wages and provides opportunity, and training for those entering the workforce.
Protestors and unions want McDonald's to raise the minimum wage paid to workers to $15 from the US federal minimum of $7.25.
