Dem senators ask Kroger to ban open carry of firearms in stores

A group of Senate Democrats are demanding that the grocery store chain Kroger ban firearms from its stores, warning that “gun extremists” are taking advantage of the company’s lax policy.

“There is simply no reason why someone would need an AK-47 to purchase milk, bread, or other basic necessities at a grocery store,” the senators wrote.

{mosads}Sens. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) sent a letter to Kroger Co. CEO, W. Rodney McMullen, on Tuesday asking him to implement storewide policies that would prevent individuals from openly carrying firearms into Kroger locations.

“We write today to urge you to adopt a policy that would prohibit the open carry of firearms in your stores,” the letter stated. “In doing so, Kroger would be sending an important message about your commitment to the safety of your employees and customers.”

The senators cited recent events, where Kroger customers have brought assault rifles while shopping.

“Gun extremists in several states have exploited the current Kroger policy by flaunting assault rifles as they shopped. These bizarre displays must be terrifying for Kroger employees and customers,” the senators wrote. “The current Kroger policy allows for these demonstrations.”

Major chains, such as Starbucks, Chipotle, Sonic, Chili’s, Panera Bread and Target have all recently banned firearms from their stores. Kroger is the largest supermarket retailer in the United States.