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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.
Latest Articles
How Much Does the Government Spend on International Affairs?
Federal spending for international affairs, which supports American diplomacy and development aid, is a small portion of the U.S. budget.
Can We Raise the Retirement Age and Protect Vulnerable Workers?
Raising the retirement age could harm workers who would be unable to delay retirement due to physically demanding occupations, disability, or job loss.
A Brief History of U.S. Government Shutdowns
Government shutdowns (and the threat of them) are a recent phenomenon and something other developed countries don’t contend with.
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Nov 13, 2025
Can We Raise the Retirement Age and Protect Vulnerable Workers?
Raising the retirement age could harm workers who would be unable to delay retirement due to physically demanding occupations, disability, or job loss.
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.
Oct 30, 2025
Should We Eliminate the Social Security Tax Cap?
There have been a number of proposals to increase, eliminate, or otherwise adjust the payroll tax cap as a way to shore up Social Security’s finances.
Sep 9, 2025
Spending on Veterans in the Budget
This piece examines spending on veterans within the budget and outlines the factors that have pushed it higher in recent years.
Aug 11, 2025
How Does the Aging of the Population Affect Our Fiscal Health?
As a large portion of the American population lives well beyond retirement age, the total cost of providing healthcare will grow as well.
Aug 5, 2025
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.
Jul 1, 2025
Despite Decades of Warnings, Depletion of Social Security’s Trust Fund Is Getting Closer
The depletion dates for Social Security and Medicare’s Trust Funds are rapidly approaching.