The Unsustainable US National Debt: A Looming Crisis Ignored by 2024 Presidential Candidates

The United States faces a significant economic challenge with its growing national debt, which has reached $35 trillion. Experts warn that without action, a debt crisis could lead to recession and fiscal austerity. While stabilizing the debt at its current level is possible, it would require substantial measures like reducing annual deficits. However, both presidential candidates, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, propose tax cuts and spending plans that would further increase the debt. Their promises to protect Social Security and Medicare without modifications are unrealistic given the programs` financial strain. Addressing the debt problem necessitates politically unpopular decisions, such as reforming entitlement programs, which neither candidate is willing to address during their campaigns. This inaction will likely result in a more severe and costly solution when a crisis eventually forces action.