LETTER: Idea that greed, not inflation, causes higher prices is absurd

To Ozaukee Press:

Any positive news emanating from the federal government seems deeply scarce these days. Recently, we were again faced with new reports of runaway inflation. The consumer price index climbed a staggering 7%.

A recent letter to the editor published in Ozaukee Press caught my attention in that it suggested any blame for higher prices should be pointed at those nasty business owners that merely want more of that vicious P-word—profit.

The common sense thought process couldn’t disagree more. Businesses continue to struggle with higher labor costs and increasing costs of basic supplies; restaurants are faced with historically high  food costs, not to mention basic skyrocketing energy costs and a lot more.

But the letter writer said, there is “no force making them raise prices.” That’s simply absurd. I would ask, where else would businesses find the increased cash flow to pay their already inflated bills without raising prices?

Common sense tells you as inflation rises, consumer spending declines.

There is a bigger picture here. This same logic and mindset is how our federal government and mainly Democrats tend to operate. Their anti-business, anti-profit agenda prevails, all the while pointing fingers to deflect from the root cause.

Supply chains will continue to struggle, increased energy costs will continue and inflation will be with us well into the new year. I’m hoping that these businesses, particularly the small family-owned ones, can survive.

The past year under the current administration was anything but stellar. It’s time for change and stronger leadership is needed. Next November should be a good starting point. Just remember the year we had and what direction you want to go in.

Grant O. Smith
Port Washington