Could that be because red states have lower GDP and more poverty, so there's obviously less room for businesses to raise prices?

I'm not an economist, but seems like a natural explanation.

We also have no jobs, healthcare and public education is bad (but Gov Lee just held FEMA funds hostage for 5 months until the legislature passed his school voucher scam) min wage has been $7.25 since 2009, many people depend on govt assistance (thanks blue states!), a huge drug problem, corruption

Same. I’d happily punch him in the face to make my point.