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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

April 24, 2025

U.S. Voters Sound Alarm on Budget Bill That Adds $29 Trillion to National Debt; Deep Concern Across Party Lines About Inflation, Interest Rates

“Voters understand that rising debt puts upward pressure on inflation, and makes everything more expensive, from grocery shopping to buying a house or car,” said Michael A. Peterson.

April 21, 2025

Growing National Debt Sets Off Alarm Bells for U.S. Business Leaders

Debt rising unsustainably threatens the country’s economic future, and a number of business leaders have signaled their concern.

April 17, 2025

How Much Can the Administration Really Save by Cutting Down on Improper Payments?

Cutting down on improper payments could increase program efficiency, bolster Americans’ confidence in their government, and safeguard taxpayer dollars.

April 17, 2025

What Is R Versus G and Why Does It Matter for the National Debt?

The combination of higher debt levels and elevated interest rates have increased the cost of federal borrowing, prompting economists to consider the sustainability of our fiscal trajectory.

April 17, 2025

High Interest Rates Left Their Mark on the Budget

When rates increase, borrowing costs rise; unfortunately, for the fiscal bottom line, that dynamic has been playing out over the past few years.

April 16, 2025

Debt vs. Deficits: What’s the Difference?

The words debt and deficit come up frequently in debates about policy decisions. The two concepts are similar, but are often confused.

April 16, 2025

How Do States Pay for Medicaid?

Medicaid’s role in state budgets is unique, since the program acts as both an expenditure and the largest source of federal support in state budgets.

April 14, 2025

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.

April 14, 2025

Infographic: How the U.S. Tax System Works

One issue that most lawmakers and voters agree on is that our tax system needs reform.

April 11, 2025

How Does Government Healthcare Spending Differ From Private Insurance?

Government insurance programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, made up 45 percent, or $1.9 trillion, of national healthcare spending.