Economic relief is on the way, Democrats say. But what, how and when?

Winning candidates promised to cut costs, rein in corporations, curb billionaire power and improve the economy

Don’t worry, cash-strapped Americans, “relief is on the way”, the senator Chuck Schumer promised last week in a press conference celebrating Democrats’ massive midterms win.

Winning candidates promised to cut food and healthcare costs, rein in corporations ripping off consumers and workers, curb billionaire power and make the world’s biggest economy better serve the working class.

There’s broad agreement on those lofty goals and on some short-term steps. But the big win is bringing decades-old battles to the fore, about how the US federal government should fund safety nets and check healthcare and food costs.