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  • The Fiscal Challenge
    • Our National Debt

      Understand the U.S. national debt, why it matters, and what we can do.

      Understanding the Federal Budget

      Learn about the budget, how it’s created, and how we can fix our budgeting process.

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  • Issues
      • Fiscal Outlook

      • The U.S. Budget

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      • Corporate Taxes

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      • Social Programs

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      • Economic Outlook

      • See all Issues

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      • Engaging Young Americans

      • Strengthening Our Democracy

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Chart Pack: The U.S. Budget

By briteweb | May 12, 2026
Chart Packs

A selection of key charts that give an overview of the major components in the U.S. federal budget.

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The United States Spends More on Defense than the Next 6 Countries Combined

By briteweb | May 7, 2026
A U.S. soldier mans a gun at the back gate aboard a helicopter

Defense spending by the United States accounted for nearly 40 percent of military expenditures by countries around the world.

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Budget Basics: What Is the Earned Income Tax Credit?

By briteweb | May 4, 2026
Fast food workers

The earned income tax credit (EITC) is a measure administered through the tax code to address poverty.

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How Much Does the Government Spend on International Affairs?

By briteweb | April 28, 2026
An aid worker distributes measured portions of yellow lentils

Federal spending for international affairs, which supports American diplomacy and development aid, is a small portion of the U.S. budget.

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What Is Inflation and Why Does It Matter?

By briteweb | April 28, 2026

Here’s an overview of inflation, why it matters, and how it’s managed.

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5 Key Facts About Rising Healthcare Spending in the United States

By svillarreal | April 20, 2026
Doctors and nurses tend to a hospital patient

Healthcare spending in the United States is a key driver of the nation’s fiscal imbalance and has risen notably over the past few decades.

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The Highway Trust Fund Explained

By briteweb | April 16, 2026
Aerial view of highway interchange

The funding structure of the Highway Trust Fund requires serious, long-term changes, but how to approach reform remains a topic of debate.

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Quiz: How Much Do You Know About the Federal Budget?

By briteweb | April 15, 2026
Copies of the budget

A strong fiscal outlook is an essential foundation for a growing, thriving economy. Take our quiz to see how much you really know about the federal budget.

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What Is Stepped-Up Basis on Capital Gains and How Does It Affect the Federal Budget?

By briteweb | April 14, 2026

The step-up in basis is a provision in tax law that relates to how assets — such as stocks, bonds, or real estate — are valued and taxed after their owner passes away.

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Chart Pack: Healthcare

By briteweb | April 13, 2026
Chart Packs

These charts illustrate the growth in U.S. healthcare spending and how it affects the federal budget.

Read More
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