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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 Do We Spend on the Federal Workforce?
Here, we examine the federal government’s expenditure on its workforce, the evolution of its size over time, and the opportunities for budget savings.
What Are Interest Costs on the National Debt?
Interest costs are on track to become the largest category of spending in the federal budget.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act Is the Most Expensive Reconciliation Package in Recent History
The legislative package will be the most expensive reconciliation bill in a quarter of a century and will add trillions of dollars to the U.S. debt.
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May 5, 2025
The United States Spends More on Defense than the Next 9 Countries Combined
Defense spending by the United States accounted for nearly 40 percent of military expenditures by countries around the world in 2023.
Feb 3, 2025
Chart Pack: Defense Spending
A selection of key charts on defense spending in the United States.
Aug 12, 2024
Infographic: The Facts About U.S. Defense Spending
National security is both a vital priority and a significant part of the federal budget.
May 2, 2024
Budget Basics: National Defense
The national defense budget funds a wide range of activities and represents a significant share of overall federal spending.
Sep 13, 2022
House Proposes Modest Increase in Defense Spending
The House Appropriations Committee approved a bill that would provide $761.7 billion in defense funding during fiscal year 2023 — a proposed increase of 5 percent.
Oct 7, 2020
What Are Overseas Contingency Operations?
Military activities are funded by federal appropriations. Learn more about how military spending is used to meet national priorities in war zones.