RESOURCES
Research, analyses, and news from the Peter G. Peterson Foundation
Featured Article
Press Releases
Explore news and announcements from the Peter G. Peterson Foundation.
Chart Packs
Our charts frame the fiscal outlook of the U.S. government within a broad economic, political, and demographic context.
Polling
Our polling tracks the public’s views about our fiscal and economic condition and the progress elected leaders are making in addressing it.
Popular Articles
The Federal Government Has Borrowed Trillions. Who Owns All that Debt?
Most federal debt is owed to domestic holders, but foreign ownership is much higher now than it was about 50 years ago.
Social Security Will Be Depleted By 2032, and Other Takeaways From the Trustees Report
Social Security’s primary trust fund is projected to be depleted by 2032, at which point, benefits for every recipient will be automatically cut by 22 percent.
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.
Explore All Resources
SEARCH
SORT
Type
Issues
Jul 16, 2026
Infographic: The Facts About U.S. Defense Spending
National security is both a vital priority and a significant part of the federal budget.
Jun 23, 2026
Rising National Debt Increases Costs for American Families and Businesses
Federal fiscal policy is a significant but often overlooked factor in the affordability of vehicles, homes, and small business loans.
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.
Apr 2, 2026
Infographic: How the U.S. Tax System Works
One issue that most lawmakers and voters agree on is that our tax system needs reform.
Mar 18, 2026
Infographic: The National Debt Is Now More than $39 Trillion. What Does That Mean?
Although the national debt affects each of us, it may be difficult to put such a large number into perspective.
Nov 17, 2025
Infographic: U.S. Healthcare Spending
Improving our healthcare system to deliver better quality care at lower cost is critically important to our nation’s long-term economic and fiscal well-being.
Oct 3, 2025
How Marginal Tax Rates and Breaks Affect What You Pay
The percentage of income that Americans pay in taxes can vary widely and depend on many factors.