National Debt and Federal Spending

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Higher taxes, alone, are not the solution to out-of-control federal government spending. Americans need to understand and address the problem.  And, they need to convince politicians and bureaucrats to end their unfettered spending habits.

The national debt enables the federal government to pay for federal programs and services even if it does not have funds immediately available. Increased in federal government spending further increases the deficit.

The federal government spends money on a variety of goods, programs, and services to support the American public and pay interest incurred from borrowing.

  • If the government spends more than it collects in revenue, then there is a budget deficit.
  • If the government spends less than it collects in revenue, there is a budget surplus.

From FY 2019 to FY 2021, spending increased by about 50%, largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In fiscal year (FY) 2022, the government spent $6.27 trillion, which was more than it collected (revenue), resulting in a deficit.


Federal government spending pays for everything from Social Security and Medicare to military equipment, highway maintenance, building construction, research, and education. This spending can be broken down into two primary categories: mandatory and discretionary. These purchases can also be classified by object classand budget functions.

Tax cuts, stimulus programs, increased government spending, and decreased tax revenue caused by widespread unemployment generally account for sharp rises in the national debt.

References:

  1. https://fiscaldata.treasury.gov/americas-finance-guide/national-debt/
  2. https://fiscaldata.treasury.gov/americas-finance-guide/federal-spending/
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