#USNationalDebt refers to the total amount of money the federal government owes to creditors. As of 2025, it exceeds **\$34 trillion**, driven by decades of budget deficits, wars, tax cuts, and pandemic-related spending. The debt is divided into two parts: **public debt** held by investors and **intragovernmental debt** owed to trust funds like Social Security. Rising interest payments threaten future economic stability. While borrowing can support growth during downturns, unchecked debt raises concerns about inflation, credit ratings, and burdening future generations. Addressing it requires difficult choices in **spending cuts**, **tax reforms**, or a combination of both.