#USNationalDebt The US national debt is approximately $36.2 trillion, with debt held by the public around $29 trillion and intragovernmental holdings at $7.4 trillion. This debt represents about 123% of the country's GDP. The national debt has been increasing steadily, with a significant surge during the COVID-19 pandemic. Factors contributing to the growing debt include ¹ ² ³:

- *Demographics*: An aging population and increased spending on Social Security and Medicare

- *Rising Healthcare Costs*: The US healthcare system is the most expensive globally, putting pressure on the federal budget

- *Inadequate Revenues*: The tax system doesn't generate enough revenue to cover government spending

The interest on this debt is substantial, with daily interest payments exceeding $2.6 billion ³.