The Latest
The Peter G. Peterson Foundation is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization focused on building a brighter economic future for all Americans. Browse our latest content and updates.
News
September 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.
September 11, 2025
What Is Budget Reconciliation?
The reconciliation process avoids the potential need to gather 60 votes to end debate and, therefore, allows the Senate to adopt legislation with a simple majority.
September 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.
September 5, 2025
Infographic: What Is the Debt Ceiling?
Increasing the debt ceiling allows the Treasury to borrow funds to pay for government obligations that have already been incurred as the result of laws and budgets approved by the President and Congress.
September 4, 2025
How Does Inflation Affect the Federal Budget?
Rising inflation usually prompts higher interest rates, which in turn boost interest paid on the federal debt and thereby increase annual deficits.
September 2, 2025
Debt Ceiling Update: What’s at Stake
If lawmakers do not agree on raising or suspending the debt limit before the extraordinary measures are exhausted, there would be severe consequences.
August 28, 2025
As National Debt Surpasses $37 Trillion, Voters Want Congress to Improve Fiscal Outlook
“Today’s new survey shows widespread concern about the $37 trillion and growing national debt,” said Michael A. Peterson.
August 27, 2025
Budget Basics: Federal Trust Funds
Federal trust funds bear little resemblance to their private-sector counterparts.
August 22, 2025
Where the American Healthcare System Underperforms
Healthcare in the United States is very expensive — but we don’t get what we pay for.