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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.
Social Security Is in Trouble. What Does That Mean for Younger Americans?
Social Security’s looming insolvency is also a threat to the economic future of younger Americans.
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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Issues
Sep 1, 2026
Bond Market Movements Point to Growing Fiscal Risks
As ratings agencies have serially warned, U.S. debt growth is unsustainable, and global investors appear to be weighing the risks of financing U.S. deficits more heavily.
Aug 19, 2026
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.
Aug 19, 2026
With $40 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.
Aug 19, 2026
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.
Aug 19, 2026
Infographic: The National Debt Is Now More than $40 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.
Aug 19, 2026
4 Ways the United States Got to $40 Trillion in National Debt
These four key fiscal trends over the last 25 years that have put the nation’s debt on a dangerous trajectory.
Aug 14, 2026
What Is Fiscal Dominance?
Fiscal dominance occurs when the national debt — and especially high interest costs — forces the hand of monetary policymakers.