#USNationalDebt
The U.S. national debt is the total amount of money the federal government owes to creditors. It results from borrowing to cover years of budget deficits, where government spending exceeds revenue. As of 2025, the debt exceeds $34 trillion and continues to rise due to increased spending on programs like Social Security, Medicare, defense, and interest payments. The debt is financed through the sale of Treasury securities to individuals, businesses, and foreign governments. While borrowing can stimulate growth, excessive debt may lead to higher interest rates, inflation, and reduced investor confidence. Policymakers face ongoing debates about raising taxes, cutting spending, or reforming entitlement programs to manage the debt sustainably and protect the nation’s long-term fiscal health.