← August 20, 2026 briefing
US National Debt Crosses $40 Trillion for First Time
Economy

US National Debt Crosses $40 Trillion for First Time

The US national debt has hit $40.047 trillion, a milestone that reflects a decade of deficit spending under both parties. The figure has doubled since Trump's first term began, underscoring a structural spending problem that no administration has seriously tackled.

MarketHow many Fed rate cuts in 2026?
Will no Fed rate cuts happen in 2026?86% chance
Sources

More from today's briefing

Trump Announces Sweeping New Sanctions Against Iran
World

Trump Announces Sweeping New Sanctions Against Iran

Moderna and Merck mRNA Cancer Vaccine Cuts Melanoma Recurrence
Health

Moderna and Merck mRNA Cancer Vaccine Cuts Melanoma Recurrence

Goldmine Collapse in Central African Republic Kills Over 100
World

Goldmine Collapse in Central African Republic Kills Over 100

Pentagon Questionnaire Probes NATO Allies on US Political Loyalty
Politics

Pentagon Questionnaire Probes NATO Allies on US Political Loyalty