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Explore news and announcements from the Peter G. Peterson Foundation.
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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.
National Debt Projected to Hit 175% GDP; Interest Totals $99 Trillion
Compared with the previous 30-year projections, spending will be higher, revenues lower, interest rates and interest payments elevated, and the national debt significantly larger.
The United States Collects Less Tax Revenue Than Other G7 Countries
The U.S. collects less tax revenues compared with other G7 countries, and that lower level of revenues is a key driver of the national debt.
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Apr 30, 2026
The Fed Held Its Target Range For the Third Meeting in a Row but Interest Costs Remain High
High interest rates on U.S. Treasury securities increase the federal government’s borrowing costs.
Apr 28, 2026
What Is Inflation and Why Does It Matter?
Here’s an overview of inflation, why it matters, and how it’s managed.
Apr 13, 2026
The Demographics of Income and Wealth in the United States
Income levels for Americans vary across geography, race, and gender.
Mar 18, 2026
With $39 Trillion in Debt, Is the U.S. Headed for More Credit Downgrades?
Three successive downgrades of the U.S. credit rating should alarm elected leaders, but our national debt remains on an unsustainable trajectory.
Feb 17, 2026
Chart Pack: Economic Outlook
A selection of charts providing an overview of the U.S. economic outlook.
Jan 22, 2026
What’s the Difference Between the Trade Deficit and Budget Deficit?
The terms “budget deficit” and “trade deficit” can be conflated, but they are distinct measurements of important fiscal and economic concepts.
Dec 19, 2025
What Are the Economic Costs of Child Poverty?
Child poverty is higher in the United States than in other wealthy countries. Studies show that it has quantifiable economic costs.