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US Gross National Debt Exceeds $40 Trillion

Thursday, August 20, 2026 · 5 sources

The US gross national debt has surpassed $40 trillion for the first time, according to the US Treasury Department. This milestone reflects years of increased government spending under both the Trump and Biden administrations.

The US Treasury Department reported that the nation's gross national debt exceeded $40 trillion on Wednesday. The debt balance reached $40.047 trillion on Tuesday afternoon, marking the highest level in US history. This significant increase is attributed to a decade of growing government deficits, which have more than doubled over the past ten years. The rising debt is a result of sustained government spending, a trend that has continued under both Donald Trump and Joe Biden. The Treasury Department's latest debt balance highlights the ongoing challenge of managing the nation's finances. The US government's spending has outpaced its revenue, leading to a significant accumulation of debt. As the debt continues to grow, it may have implications for the nation's economic stability and fiscal policy.

The 50+ takeaway: Rising debt may impact future Social Security and Medicare funding.

Go Deeper

What is the current US gross national debt?

The US gross national debt has surpassed $40 trillion, with a debt balance of $40.047 trillion reported by the US Treasury Department.

How has the US government deficit changed over the last decade?

The US government deficit has more than doubled over the last decade, contributing to the significant increase in the nation's debt.

Which administrations have contributed to the growing debt?

Both the Trump and Biden administrations have seen increased government spending, contributing to the rising debt.

What are the implications of the growing US debt?

The growing debt may have implications for the nation's economic stability and fiscal policy, as the government's spending continues to outpace its revenue.

How is the US Treasury Department tracking the national debt?

The US Treasury Department is tracking the national debt through its latest debt balance, which is updated regularly to reflect changes in the nation's finances.