Marketplace All-in-One What is the national debt?
Oct 28, 2025
Join the fun as hosts dive into the spooky world of national debt while prepping for a Halloween extravaganza! They explore who the government owes money to and why borrowing can be tricky. Listen to how the town's Halloween festivities go wild with extravagant spending, highlighted by a metaphorical money-eating monster. As they navigate debt, interest rates, and tough choices, they spark engaging questions about budgeting, making it an entertaining lesson for kids and adults alike!
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How Governments Borrow Money
- The national debt is money the government owes, often raised by selling bonds to lenders including citizens.
- Governments borrow when they lack cash now but expect future tax revenue to cover repayments.
Town Buys Halloween With Bonds
- The town funds a giant Halloween celebration by selling bonds to residents and taking on large debt.
- The mayor keeps borrowing for bigger attractions despite warnings about long-term costs.
Debt Compared To GDP Matters
- Economists compare national debt to GDP to judge scale and sustainability.
- The U.S. debt can exceed annual GDP, raising concern about future borrower confidence.