💲 Understanding the U.S. National Debt

The U.S. National Debt refers to the total amount of money the federal government owes to creditors. It is the result of the government spending more than it collects in revenue over time. As of 2025, the debt has surpassed $34 trillion, making it one of the most pressing economic issues facing the country.

The debt is divided into two main categories:

1. Public Debt – money borrowed from external investors, foreign governments, and financial institutions.

2. Intragovernmental Holdings – money the federal government owes to various trust funds, like Social Security.