#USNationalDebt
The U.S. national debt refers to the total amount of money the federal government owes to creditors, both domestic and international. As of 2025, the debt exceeds $34 trillion, driven by decades of budget deficits where government spending outpaced tax revenues. Major contributors include entitlement programs, defense spending, economic stimulus efforts, and interest payments on existing debt. While borrowing helps fund essential services and respond to crises, rising debt raises concerns about long-term sustainability, potential inflation, and reduced fiscal flexibility. Lawmakers face ongoing challenges in balancing economic growth with responsible budgeting to ensure the nation's financial health for future generations.