#USNationalDebt

The **U.S. national debt** is the total amount owed by the federal government, currently standing at **$36.21 trillion** as of June 2025 . This debt consists of **$28.95 trillion held by the public** (including foreign governments and investors) and **$7.26 trillion in intragovernmental debt** (owed to federal programs like Social Security) . The debt grows due to annual budget deficits, where spending exceeds revenue, driven by factors like aging demographics, rising healthcare costs, and insufficient tax revenues . Historically, wars, recessions, and crises (e.g., COVID-19) have spiked borrowing. The debt-to-GDP ratio—a key fiscal health indicator—reached **124.3% in 2024**, reflecting long-term sustainability challenges . Interest payments alone cost **$2.6 billion daily**, straining future budgets .

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