#USNationalDebt
As of mid-2025, the **U.S. national debt** has crossed **$36.2 trillion**, with a **debt-to-GDP ratio of about 120.8%**. This means the nation owes more than its entire annual economic output. Contributing factors include persistent **budget deficits**, soaring **interest payments**, and higher spending on programs like **Social Security, Medicare, and defense**.
In fiscal year 2024, the government ran a **$1.8 trillion deficit**, with spending at **$6.75 trillion** and revenue at **$4.92 trillion**. Interest alone now costs over **$1 trillion annually**, making it one of the top federal expenses.
This escalating debt raises concerns about **future inflation**, **tax hikes**, and reduced flexibility for economic stimulus or crisis response.