#USNationalDebt The US national debt is approximately $36.2 trillion as of May 2025, which translates to around $106,000 per person in the US. This debt has been accumulating over time due to the federal government spending more money than it brings in through taxes and other revenue sources.
*Key Factors Contributing to the Growing National Debt:*
- *Demographics*: The aging baby-boom generation and increasing life expectancy are putting pressure on the federal budget, particularly on programs like Social Security and Medicare.
- *Rising Healthcare Costs*: Healthcare expenses are growing rapidly, accounting for nearly one-fifth of the US economy and contributing significantly to the national debt.
- *Inadequate Revenues*: The US tax system doesn't generate enough revenue to cover the government's spending, resulting in higher annual deficits and mounting debt.
*Consequences of the Growing National Debt:*
- *Increasing Interest Payments*: As the debt grows, so do the interest payments, which are becoming the fastest-growing part of the federal budget. The US government spends over $2.6 billion daily on interest payments.
- *Reduced Investment in Key Areas*: The growing debt and interest payments may limit the government's ability to invest in essential areas like education, infrastructure, and healthcare ¹.
*Debt-to-GDP Ratio:*
- The US debt-to-GDP ratio stood at 121% as of Q1 2025, indicating that the country's debt is higher than its annual economic output ².
