Stories

Thu, 05 Nov 2026

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 Food, fuel and taxes – can the Democrats actually make life cheaper?

Their message on cost of living resonated with voters. Now they must show they can deliver.

* Americans have voted in a historic shift in power, with Democrats gaining control of Congress.
* The election was driven by concerns over affordability and living costs, with voters prioritizing issues such as rising grocery bills, electricity prices, and petrol costs.
* Business owners Kim Hanks and Danny Reynolds highlighted the impact of inflation on their businesses, with Hanks citing rising fuel and grocery costs forcing her to raise wages for her staff.
* Democrats have promised to tackle these issues, including scrapping import taxes, reversing cuts to Medicaid, and investing in affordable healthcare.
* However, President Trump still has the power to block legislation, and investors warn that it will be difficult for Democrats to pass major laws without bipartisan support.
* Tariffs are expected to remain a contentious issue, with forecasters predicting they will stay at around 10% for the rest of Trump's term.
* Democrats may struggle to claim credit if petrol prices come down after the war in Iran, and may share blame if prices go up.
* Government funding is set to run out on December 11, increasing the chances of another shutdown.