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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.
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.
How Does the Capital Gains Tax Work Now, 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.
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Sep 12, 2025
Infographic: The Facts About U.S. Defense Spending
National security is both a vital priority and a significant part of the federal budget.
Sep 9, 2025
Budget Basics: National Defense
The national defense budget funds a wide range of activities and represents a significant share of overall federal spending.
Jul 3, 2025
Chart Pack: Defense Spending
A selection of key charts on defense spending in the United States.
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.
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.