President Trump’s promises to restore fiscal order and reduce the amount of America’s debt burden have been undercut by spending on the Iran war, tax cuts and tariff refunds.
U.S. Debt Hits $40 Trillion as America’s Borrowing Binge Continues
President Trump’s promises to restore fiscal order and reduce the amount of America’s debt burden have been undercut by spending on the Iran war, tax cuts and tariff refunds.
By Alan Rappeport
Wednesday, August 19, 2026·1 min read

Last updated Aug 24, 2026 · 01:09 PM UTC
More in Markets

Which Countries Could Be Hurt Most by Trump’s Plan to Hit Iran’s Economy?
President Trump has threatened economic penalties on countries that do business with Iran as he seeks to add pressure on Tehran to negotiate an end to the war.
Leo Sands·

Europe Hurries to Fund More Cutting-Edge Businesses to Compete With China and U.S.
European governments, facing a nearly $1 trillion gap in investment funding, are casting a wide net to back start-ups developing pioneering technologies.
Patricia Cohen·

Sugar Importer With Trump Ties Said to Maintain Abusive Labor Practices
A watchdog group said the Dominican company continued to violate labor standards after President Trump lifted an import ban last year.
Ana Swanson·
