#USNationalDebt The national debt of the U.S. exceeds $36.56 trillion, with a debt held by the public of $29 trillion and intragovernmental holdings of $7.4 trillion. This debt allows the federal government to finance programs and services, even when revenues are insufficient. The national debt has been increasing due to factors such as tax cuts, stimulus programs, and rising healthcare costs. Interest expenses on the debt have remained stable due to low interest rates, but recent increases may change this. The debt-to-GDP ratio is a key indicator of the country’s fiscal situation, which is currently projected to rise to 116% by 2034.¹