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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.
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 21, 2026
Social Security Will Be Depleted in 6 Years — Here Are 3 Ideas to Fix It
Here are three options Congress could enact to close the funding gap.
Apr 9, 2026
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.
Mar 19, 2026
Social Security’s Funding Gap is 1.3% of GDP — Here’s How We Can Close It
Social Security is an integral part of the nation’s fiscal picture and a vital economic lifeline for millions of recipients.
Feb 19, 2026
Lawmakers are Running Out of Time to Fix Social Security
Without reform, Social Security could be depleted as early as 2032, with automatic cuts for beneficiaries.
Jan 14, 2026
Budget Basics: How Does Social Security Work?
Social Security is the largest single program in the federal budget and typically makes up one-fifth of total federal spending.
Dec 16, 2025
Budget Basics: Unemployment Insurance Explained
The Unemployment Insurance program is a key counter-cyclical tool to help stabilize the economy and speed recovery during downturns or crises.
Nov 25, 2025
7 Key Trends in Poverty in the United States
Thirteen percent of the U.S. population lives in poverty. Learn more about the demographic and regional variations in the poverty rate.