#USNationalDebt The U.S. national debt is a constantly evolving figure, currently standing at over $36.2 trillion as of May 2025. This staggering sum represents the accumulation of annual budget deficits, where government spending exceeds revenue. Major drivers of this growth include increased spending during national emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic, rising healthcare costs, an aging population, and a tax system that struggles to keep pace with expenditures.

A significant concern is the escalating cost of servicing this debt, with interest payments reaching over $1 trillion in 2024, surpassing defense spending. This trend is exacerbated by rising interest rates, further burdening future budgets. The debt-to-GDP ratio, currently around 121% in Q1 2025, indicates the economy owes more than it produces annually. While the U.S. has historically managed its debt, the rapid increase raises long-term fiscal sustainability questions and potential impacts on economic growth and future generations.