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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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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.
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.
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.
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May 7, 2026
The United States Spends More on Defense than the Next 6 Countries Combined
Defense spending by the United States accounted for nearly 40 percent of military expenditures by countries around the world.
Feb 17, 2026
Chart Pack: Defense Spending
A selection of key charts on defense spending in the United States.
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.
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.