JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – U.S. Senate candidate Katrina Christiansen expressed strong opposition today to what she describes as a predatory corporate practice that is becoming increasingly prevalent in the current economic climate: price gouging. Christiansen emphasized that this issue is of particular concern to North Dakotans struggling with rising grocery costs.

“The number one concern I hear on the campaign trail is the price of groceries,” Christiansen said. “Families need to feed themselves, but at this most vulnerable time, it seems that corporations are more interested in making an extra buck than addressing this serious problem.”

Kroger, a major grocery chain, has recently come under scrutiny for its collaboration with Microsoft to introduce “smart pricing” technology. This system, which utilizes AI, facial recognition software, and electronic shelf labeling, is designed to adjust prices dynamically, potentially maximizing profits from each customer. Critics, including Christiansen, argue that this could lead to further price increases for essential items.

This model of pricing, initially popularized by ride-share app Uber, is seen as problematic by many. “While some can afford to take the bus instead of an Uber when prices are high, American shoppers are held hostage when it comes to groceries,” Christiansen pointed out.

“As a working mom, when the price of eggs goes up, I feel that in my pocketbook,” she added. “Kroger has already admitted to price gouging on milk and eggs—we need legislation as soon as possible to ensure that this sensitive part of our economy doesn’t become a breaking point for middle-class Americans.”

Kroger is currently under investigation by the U.S. Senate for these alleged exploitative practices. Christiansen’s opponent, incumbent Senator Kevin Cramer, has yet to comment on the matter. Cramer, who recently touted receiving campaign donations from “all sorts of interests,” has not publicly addressed the issue of large corporations potentially taking advantage of middle America.

Christiansen plans to push for stronger legislative measures to prevent price gouging and protect consumers if elected to the Senate.