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Our charts frame the fiscal outlook of the U.S. government within a broad economic, political, and demographic context.
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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.
How Does the Capital Gains Tax Work, and What Are Some Proposed Reforms?
While the capital gains tax affects anyone selling a capital asset, higher-income individuals are typically subject to the tax more so than average Americans.
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.
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Issues
Aug 14, 2026
Can We Grow Our Way Out of the National Debt?
The gap between what economic growth can realistically deliver and what fiscal sustainability requires is too large to bridge without also addressing the structural imbalance between federal spending and revenues.
Aug 3, 2026
How Rising National Debt Drives Up Interest Rates — and What That Means for Americans
By adding upward pressure to interest rates, the rising national debt can increase the cost of living for American households.
Jul 29, 2026
The Fed Held Its Target Range For the Fifth Meeting in a Row but Interest Costs Remain High
High interest rates on U.S. Treasury securities increase the federal government’s borrowing costs.
Jul 15, 2026
How Does Inflation Impact Young Americans?
While the immediate effects of rising inflation are painfully visible, the long-term consequences are also highly damaging to the financial stability of younger Americans.
Jul 13, 2026
The Rising National Debt Means Fewer Jobs, Lower Wages for Young People
The national debt is growing faster than ever, and the consequences for the job market are serious.
Jul 2, 2026
The National Debt Can Crowd Out Investments in the Economy — Here’s How
Large amounts of federal debt could “crowd out” investments by the private sector, making the economy less productive and stunting wage growth.
Jun 30, 2026
Chart Pack: Economic Outlook
A selection of charts providing an overview of the U.S. economic outlook.