U.S. Deficit Hits $2 Trillion | Tampa News

The U.S. budget deficit soared to $2 trillion in the first 11 months of fiscal year 2026, slightly lower than last year’s figure but inflated by holiday timing—adjusting for that reveals an even steeper climb. Federal spending rose 2%, driven by mandatory programs like Social Security and Medicare, plus a 12% spike in interest payments on ballooning debt. Tax receipts climbed 3% thanks to higher individual and payroll taxes, though corporate taxes dipped. The national debt now exceeds $40 trillion—and we’re spending more annually on interest than on defense. Experts warn we’ve delayed tough choices too long, urging lawmakers to slash deficits by half and protect critical trust funds, or risk leaving future generations with insurmountable financial burdens. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/7580f3eb9cf51bba