Commonwealth Policy Center

Walmart is closing its remaining stores in Portland, Oregon. The decision comes in response to the city’s refusal to prosecute shoplifting. Walmart’s CEO Doug McMillion warned in December that theft is an issue and if authorities don’t do something about it, prices will get higher, and stores will close. But Portland city officials didn’t listen to his warning, and now, Walmart will close its final two stores in Portland at the end of this month. While this will hurt the city’s revenue, it will also hurt people. Many low-income people rely on Walmart for its low prices. Now they’ll likely have to travel further and shop somewhere more expensive. But this is what happens when the rule of law is overrun, and private property rights aren’t protected; businesses move out, and people get hurt.