US national debt exceeds $40 trillion: govt data

According to reports from the Gulf Times and corroborated by international wire services, the total United States national debt has officially surpassed the $40 trillion threshold for the first time. Data released by the US Treasury Department on Wednesday confirmed the milestone, highlighting the rapid expansion of federal liabilities.

The report notes that the national debt has increased by approximately $11.6 trillion during the two terms of Donald Trump’s presidency. This figure reflects a period of significant fiscal spending, including measures taken during the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic policy shifts. The milestone has drawn renewed attention to the long-term sustainability of US fiscal policy and the growing burden of interest payments on the federal budget.

Economists and policymakers remain divided on the implications of this record-high debt level. While some argue that the size of the debt is manageable given the strength of the US economy, others warn that the pace of accumulation could lead to inflationary pressures and limit the government's ability to respond to future economic crises. The Treasury Department continues to monitor these metrics as the administration navigates ongoing fiscal negotiations.