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The Federal Government Has Borrowed Trillions. Who Owns All that Debt?
Most federal debt is owed to domestic holders, but foreign ownership is much higher now than it was about 50 years ago.
How Does the Capital Gains Tax Work, and What Are Some Proposed Reforms?
While the capital gains tax affects anyone selling a capital asset, higher-income individuals are typically subject to the tax more so than average Americans.
The United States Collects Less Tax Revenue Than Other G7 Countries
The U.S. collects less tax revenues compared with other G7 countries, and that lower level of revenues is a key driver of the national debt.
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What Are Excise Taxes and How Do They Affect the Federal Budget?
Excise taxes are levied on specific goods or services. The largest excise taxes on the federal level are related to highways, aviation, tobacco, and alcohol.
May 12, 2026
Chart Pack: The U.S. Budget
A selection of key charts that give an overview of the major components in the U.S. federal budget.
May 7, 2026
The United States Spends More on Defense than the Next 6 Countries Combined
Defense spending by the United States accounted for nearly 40 percent of military expenditures by countries around the world.
May 4, 2026
Budget Basics: What Is the Earned Income Tax Credit?
The earned income tax credit (EITC) is a measure administered through the tax code to address poverty.
Apr 30, 2026
The Fed Held Its Target Range For the Third Meeting in a Row but Interest Costs Remain High
High interest rates on U.S. Treasury securities increase the federal government’s borrowing costs.
Apr 28, 2026
How Much Does the Government Spend on International Affairs?
Federal spending for international affairs, which supports American diplomacy and development aid, is a small portion of the U.S. budget.
Apr 28, 2026
What Is Inflation and Why Does It Matter?
Here’s an overview of inflation, why it matters, and how it’s managed.