The Latest
The Peter G. Peterson Foundation is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization focused on building a brighter economic future for all Americans. Browse our latest content and updates.
News
May 28, 2026
U.S. Fiscal Confidence Lowest in Two Years, as National Debt Surpasses Size of U.S. Economy
“Higher debt drives up inflation and interest rates, making everything less affordable,” said Michael A. Peterson.
May 26, 2026
IRS Staffing Cuts Will Reduce Revenues, Driving Deficits Higher
Reductions in IRS personnel decrease federal revenues, increase deficits, and significantly exacerbate the gap between taxes that are owed and taxes that are actually paid.
May 21, 2026
What Is a Value-Added Tax and Should the United States Have One?
Almost all developed economies have a value-added or similar consumption tax — but the United States does not.
May 15, 2026
A Gas Tax Holiday Costs Billions, But Consumers See Only Marginal Savings
If the full savings from the gas tax holiday were passed on to consumers, the average licensed driver would only save approximately $8.90 per month.
May 12, 2026
What Are Excise Taxes and How Do They Affect the Federal Budget?
Excise taxes are levied on specific goods or services. The largest excise taxes on the federal level are related to highways, aviation, tobacco, and alcohol.
May 12, 2026
Chart Pack: The U.S. Budget
A selection of key charts that give an overview of the major components in the U.S. federal budget.
May 7, 2026
The United States Spends More on Defense than the Next 6 Countries Combined
Defense spending by the United States accounted for 33 percent of military expenditures by countries around the world.
May 4, 2026
Budget Basics: What Is the Earned Income Tax Credit?
The earned income tax credit (EITC) is a measure administered through the tax code to address poverty.
April 30, 2026
Peterson Foundation Statement on National Debt Surpassing 100% of GDP
“Once again, America has hit an alarming fiscal milestone that highlights our dangerous and unsustainable outlook.”