I'm sure, like any other distasteful practice, price gouging happens. However, my point is there is no way a president can identify actual price gouging and a businesses reaction to varying business cycles. When overall prices increase, I'm sure businesses who increase their prices might try and get back to that businesses profit margin target. Over time, downward price pressure can lower margins and profitability and businesses are unable to raise prices due to competitive issues. When they are able to raise prices again, it would be malpractice not to try and regain a fair profit model.