Peterson Foundation: More Debt is the Last Thing America Needs

NEW YORK — Michael A. Peterson, Chairman and CEO of the Peter G. Peterson Foundation, commented today on news reports that the House Ways and Means Committee is considering a new round of unpaid for tax cuts that would add hundreds of billions of dollars to the national debt:
“Last year’s tax legislation did major damage to our fiscal outlook — adding trillions to our national debt. After this irresponsible policy, it’s especially disappointing that lawmakers are looking to dig the hole even deeper. More debt is the last thing America needs.
“The administration recently acknowledged we have returned to trillion dollar annual deficits — an overdue admission that reflects how dire our fiscal outlook really is.
“Lawmakers should absolutely take a second look at tax policy, not to extend the irresponsibility, but to implement reforms that actually improve our fiscal situation.”
Further Reading
National Debt Puts Upward Pressure on Inflation and Interest Rates
America’s unsustainable fiscal outlook can have “significant consequences for price stability, interest rates, and overall economic performance,” according to a new report.
Here’s What a Budget Gimmick Is and How to Spot One
Lawmakers should avoid the use of budget gimmicks, which can hide the true fiscal impact of legislation.
What Is the Farm Bill, and Why Does It Matter for the Federal Budget?
The Farm Bill provides an opportunity for policymakers to comprehensively address agricultural, food, conservation, and other issues.