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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.
Latest Articles
How Much Does the Government Spend on International Affairs?
Federal spending for international affairs, which supports American diplomacy and development aid, is a small portion of the U.S. budget.
Can We Raise the Retirement Age and Protect Vulnerable Workers?
Raising the retirement age could harm workers who would be unable to delay retirement due to physically demanding occupations, disability, or job loss.
A Brief History of U.S. Government Shutdowns
Government shutdowns (and the threat of them) are a recent phenomenon and something other developed countries don’t contend with.
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Nov 13, 2025
Experts Identify Lessons from History for America Today
A distinguished group of experts to evaluate America’s current fiscal landscape with an historical perspective.
Oct 29, 2025
The Fed Reduced the Short-Term Rate Again, but Interest Costs Remain High
High interest rates on U.S. Treasury securities increase the federal government’s borrowing costs.
Oct 22, 2025
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.
Oct 22, 2025
With $38 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.
Oct 22, 2025
The United States Is Adding to the National Debt Faster Than Ever
The nation’s debt is growing at a historic rate and eclipsing all-time highs.
Oct 22, 2025
Infographic: The National Debt Is Now More than $38 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.
Sep 22, 2025
Chart Pack: Fiscal Outlook
The national debt is already at its highest level since just after World War II, and annual deficits are on an upward trajectory.