Debating the X-Date

Related to existing fiscal policy obligations, the X-date indicates precisely when the U.S. must have a higher debt ceiling.

Why Federal Spending Cuts Come After Raising the Debt Ceiling

We can look at the federal budget to see why the debt ceiling should be raised before debating federal spending tradeoffs.

Why a Debt Rescue Committee Is “Deja Vu All Over Again”

Like Yogi Berra, we could say “deja vu all over again” about the Congressional debt reduction committees that were proposed and created.

An Easy Explanation of the Debt Ceiling

With another debt ceiling conflict emerging this week, we.should look back and ahead at how, what, and why the U.S. borrows.

Deciding Who Won’t Get a U.S. Check

During two dates in December, we can worry about federal spending and debt and who won’t get a check from the U.S. government.

A Congressional Debt Ceiling Game (Theory)

Looking at the game theory behind congressional debt ceiling negotiations, we see a classic example of the prisoner’s dilemma.

How the Debt Ceiling Connects 1953 and 2021

Problems with the debt ceiling connect President Eisenhower’s highway spending and President Biden’s transportation infrastructure proposals.

Six Facts We Need To Know About the U.S. Federal Debt

Through just six facts about the U.S. debt, we can get a pretty good picture of what it is, who funds it, and where it might go.

Worrying About the Treasury’s “X” Date

Concerned about the “X” date, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has written a letter to House Speaker Ryan about the debt ceiling.

Why the Congress Needs to Raise the Debt Ceiling Again

A week ago, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin sent a letter to Speaker of the House Paul Ryan. The letter said we will have maxed out our borrowing at midnight tonight. Having reached its “statutory limit,” the outstanding debt of the U.S.…