U.S. debt tops $38 trillion for first time, worsened by government shutdown
U.S. debt tops $38 trillion for first time, worsened by government shutdown
The national debt is rising faster than ever and threatens to undermine confidence in the economy, experts warn.
Read the full article on CBS Money
Truth Analysis
Analysis Summary:
The article's central claim about the US debt exceeding $38 trillion is plausible but lacks direct confirmation from the provided sources, although related figures are mentioned. The article exhibits moderate bias through its alarmist tone and framing of the debt issue, focusing on potential negative consequences without providing a balanced perspective.
Detailed Analysis:
- Claim: U.S. debt tops $38 trillion for first time.
- Verification Source #1: States the federal government debt is $37.97 trillion.
- Verification Source #2: States the US national debt is closing in on a staggering $38 trillion.
- Verification Source #3: States that in December 2023, total federal debt was $33.1 trillion.
- Assessment: Unverified. While sources 1 and 2 suggest the debt is approaching or near $38 trillion, none explicitly confirm it has surpassed that mark. Source 3 indicates a lower debt figure in December 2023, suggesting a recent increase, but does not confirm the $38 trillion figure. The claim is plausible but requires more direct verification.
- Claim: The national debt is rising faster than ever and threatens to undermine confidence in the economy, experts warn.
- Verification Source #1: Does not directly address the rate of increase or the threat to economic confidence.
- Verification Source #2: Does not directly address the rate of increase or the threat to economic confidence.
- Verification Source #3: Does not directly address the rate of increase or the threat to economic confidence.
- Assessment: Unverified. This is a general statement and no source directly confirms this claim. It represents an expert opinion, but the article does not cite specific experts or provide supporting data within the provided sources.
- Claim: Government shutdown worsened the debt.
- Verification Source #1: Does not mention government shutdowns.
- Verification Source #2: Does not mention government shutdowns.
- Verification Source #3: Does not mention government shutdowns.
- Assessment: Unverified. None of the provided sources mention a government shutdown or its impact on the national debt.
Supporting Evidence/Contradictions:
- Source 1 states the federal government debt is $37.97 trillion, suggesting the $38 trillion claim is close to accurate, but not directly confirmed.
- Source 3 indicates a debt of $33.1 trillion in December 2023, implying a significant increase has occurred recently, but does not confirm the $38 trillion figure.