1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

I am deeply concerned about the recent surge in grocery prices and its devastating impact on American families. Food prices have risen 3.2% in the last 12 months, outpacing overall inflation and causing significant stress for over half of Americans. This price hike is not just a statistic; it's forcing people to skip meals or choose less healthy options to make ends meet. While multiple factors contribute to this issue, including pandemic-related supply chain disruptions and global events like Russia's invasion of Ukraine, we cannot ignore the role of current policies in exacerbating the problem. Specifically, the administration's tariffs on imported foods and restrictive immigration policies are driving up costs for American consumers. For instance, coffee prices have skyrocketed by more than 20% in the last year, partly due to imposed tariffs. These trade policies, intended to protect American interests, are instead hurting American wallets at the grocery store. Similarly, the crackdown on immigration is reducing the agricultural workforce, leading to higher labor costs that are passed on to consumers. Congress has the power and the responsibility to address these issues. I urge you to take immediate action to review and revise these harmful policies. We need a balanced approach that considers the complex factors affecting food prices while prioritizing the well-being of American families. Please work across party lines to develop legislation that will ease the burden of rising grocery costs. This could include reassessing current tariffs, developing more sustainable immigration policies for agricultural workers, and implementing measures to strengthen and diversify our food supply chains. The impact of these rising prices is real and immediate. Families are struggling now, and they need your help. I ask that you make this issue a priority in your legislative agenda and take concrete steps to bring relief to American consumers. Our community is counting on your leadership to ensure that putting food on the table doesn't become a luxury that many can't afford.