The Biden administration’s decision to block the $24.6 billion Kroger-Albertsons merger marks yet another failure to support America’s working families. Judges in Oregon and Washington, at the urging of the Federal Trade Commission, cited supposed competition concerns while ignoring the real issue: domination by retail giants Amazon and Walmart, who continue to squeeze local economies and workers.
This merger could have strengthened Kroger’s commitment to its employees and customers. Kroger has invested $5 billion in lower prices since 2003, $2.4 billion in wage increases since 2018, and $2.3 billion in charitable giving since 2017, including feeding hungry families. By blocking this deal, the administration has undermined union jobs and affordable grocery access—key lifelines for countless families.
Meanwhile, the economic realities are stark. Under Biden, inflation peaked at 9.1% in June 2022. Food prices have soared, housing affordability has plummeted, and nearly half of U.S. renters now spend 30% or more of their income on housing. Working families are forced to make impossible choices every day…