Grocery stores boost political donations even as Democrats take aim
The level of political donations from major food companies accepted by Democratic lawmakers has ticked higher this congressional election cycle, even as many Democrats have accused the top U.S. grocery chains and their suppliers of pushing prices higher at consumers’ expense, a Reuters analysis of Federal Election Commission data shows.
Democrats have reason to focus on food prices, which have risen 25% between 2019 and 2023. Reuters/Ipsos polling shows the economy is voters’ top concern and they have higher confidence in Republicans to manage it.
Dozens of Democrats have stepped up their calls since Kroger, the nation’s biggest grocer by revenue, proposed a $24.6 billion merger with smaller rival Albertsons. The Federal Trade Commission’s challenge to the deal, which it argues is bad for shoppers and workers, goes to trial in an Oregon federal court beginning Monday.
Albertsons’ PAC has so far contributed $291,500, more than triple its $90,000 through the full 2021-2022 election cycle. Kroger’s PAC is also running ahead of its pace, having donated $141,000 so far, up from $140,500 for the entirety of the 2021-2022 cycle.