economy

January 8, 2026

As Illinois ends grocery tax locals can replace, food inflation debate continues

(The Center Square) – An Illinois congressman’s warning that Americans are paying more for groceries is drawing pushback from economists who say federal inflation data show food prices are easing.

As Illinois ends grocery tax locals can replace, food inflation debate continues

TL;DR

  • Rep. Eric Sorensen claims grocery prices have risen significantly.
  • Economists like Nicole Huyer of the Heritage Foundation state that federal inflation data shows food prices are easing.
  • Huyer argues Sorensen's statement is political, not data-driven, citing lower CPI numbers.
  • Wage growth has reportedly outpaced inflation, suggesting improved food affordability.
  • Huyer suggests policies like deregulation, tax cuts, and reduced public spending contribute to GDP growth and declining CPI.

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