“All the grocery stores have left...”
Instead of opening a government store, they should ask why the stores left and then create conditions to allow the stores to return. Without knowing the area, I can speculate on a few reasons.
1. High Crime
2. Obama Economy
3. Liberal Taxes
4. Anti-Business environment
5. Heavily Democratic area
If they want real change, they should refuse another government handout (grocery store) and vote conservatives into office. Let churches and private charities fill the gaps during the transition period.
I think you just nailed it.