Marketplace The national debt hit $38 trillion, and yes, you should care
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Oct 23, 2025 
Join Sabri Beneshaw, a Marketplace reporter, as he uncovers the implications of the U.S. national debt hitting $38 trillion and its effects on everyday consumers. Amanda Mull from Bloomberg Businessweek delves into the world of premium credit cards and their enticing perks designed for big spenders. Matt Levin explores how always-on AI wearables are reshaping relationships, with couples using technology to enhance communication. Spencer Kornhaber from The Atlantic discusses the evolving landscape of criticism in the digital age.
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Debt Is Now Economy-Sized
- The U.S. federal debt has reached about $38 trillion, roughly the size of the entire economy.
- Rising government borrowing pushes up interest rates and crowds out private investment, slowing growth.
Interest Costs Are Eating The Budget
- Interest payments already consume a growing share of the federal budget, about 13% last year.
- Continued debt growth could force abrupt cuts, tax hikes, or printing money, risking inflation and crisis.
Unchecked Debt Risks Future Crisis
- Some models predict debt-to-GDP could hit unsustainable levels within decades if trends continue.
- That future could require emergency policy responses that would cause widespread economic pain.