The U.S. economy has been cushioned with trillions of dollars in stimulus and relief. With inflation becoming the dominant trend over the last year, the Federal Reserve is beginning to wind down its pandemic-era tools. But can the economic recovery be sustained without these mechanisms? The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the U.S. annual inflation rate surged to 6.8 percent in November; its highest level since 1982. Last month, everything was more expensive, with food and gasoline prices soaring 6.1 percent and 58 percent, respectively. Apparel climbed 5 percent, new vehicles rose 11.1 percent, used cars and trucks soared 31.4 percent, and shelter increased 3.8 percent. The number of items falling was minuscule. Potatoes dipped 0.2 percent, prescription drugs fell 0.3 percent, and college textbooks slid 0.2 percent. Suffice it to say, strategists agree that it looks like the Federal Reserve and the Treasury Department are justified in finally removing the …