#USNationalDebt

The U.S. national debt is the total amount the federal government owes to creditors, both domestic and foreign. It includes public debt (held by investors) and intragovernmental debt (owed to government programs like Social Security). As of 2025, the debt exceeds $34 trillion, driven by spending on defense, healthcare, Social Security, and interest payments. Persistent budget deficits—when spending exceeds revenue—contribute to this growing burden. While borrowing helps fund essential services and stimulate the economy during downturns, excessive debt can raise interest rates, reduce investment, and create long-term economic risks if not managed responsibly through balanced fiscal policies.