#USNationalDebt The U.S. national debt currently stands at over $36.2 trillion, representing the total accumulated borrowing by the federal government throughout history. This figure is updated daily and is roughly 122% of the nation's annual economic output (GDP).

Key drivers of this rising debt include increasing healthcare costs, an aging population leading to higher Social Security and Medicare outlays, and growing interest payments on the debt itself. Significant spikes have also followed major events like the 2008 Great Recession and the COVID-19 pandemic due to increased spending and reduced tax revenue.

The implications of a high national debt are substantial. It can lead to higher interest rates, crowding out private investment, slower economic growth, and potentially reduced funding for essential public services. It also limits the government's flexibility to respond to future crises.