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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.
Understanding the New Senior Deduction in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act
The senior deduction adds complexity to the tax code, and fewer than half of seniors will benefit from it.
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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Mar 5, 2026
Chart Pack: Social Programs
A selection of charts about crucial social programs (Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and SNAP), their financial outlook, and place within the federal budget.
Feb 19, 2026
Lawmakers are Running Out of Time to Fix Social Security
Without reform, Social Security could be depleted as early as 2032, with automatic cuts for beneficiaries.
Jan 14, 2026
Budget Basics: How Does Social Security Work?
Social Security is the largest single program in the federal budget and typically makes up one-fifth of total federal spending.
Dec 16, 2025
Budget Basics: Unemployment Insurance Explained
The Unemployment Insurance program is a key counter-cyclical tool to help stabilize the economy and speed recovery during downturns or crises.
Nov 25, 2025
7 Key Trends in Poverty in the United States
Thirteen percent of the U.S. population lives in poverty. Learn more about the demographic and regional variations in the poverty rate.
Nov 13, 2025
Can We Raise the Retirement Age and Protect Vulnerable Workers?
Some policy options aim to protect economically vulnerable workers or those who are unable to delay retirement because they work in physically demanding occupations.
Nov 3, 2025
What Is SNAP? An Overview of the Largest Federal Anti-Hunger Program
SNAP has a positive effect on poverty and food insecurity, with a relatively small effect on the federal budget.