US PUBLISHED DEBT V. THE TRUTH

 The national debt can be a complex and often misunderstood issue. I appreciate your interest in shedding light on it. Here's a breakdown of the numbers and some context:

1. US Published National Debt:
   • The commonly reported figure for the US national debt is approximately $35.4 trillion. This includes both debt held by the public (such as Treasury bonds) and intragovernmental holdings (debt held by Social Security and Medicare trust funds).
   • This number is updated periodically and is often referred to as "The Debt to the Penny."
2. "The Truth" by Truth in Accounting:
   • According to the organization "Truth in Accounting," the actual national debt is estimated to be much higher—around $156.8 trillion.
   • This calculation includes not only the debt held by the public but also unfunded Social Security and Medicare promises.
   • Each taxpayer's share of this larger debt burden is approximately $980,000.
3. Understanding the Discrepancy:
   • Why the difference? "The Truth" calculation takes into account assets and liabilities reported in the Financial Report of the U.S. Government.
   • It considers unfunded promises related to Social Security and Medicare, which are based on assumptions about future payments and receipts.
   • Essentially, it looks beyond the surface-level debt numbers to include long-term obligations.
4. The Role of the Federal Reserve:
   • You're absolutely right—the Federal Reserve plays a significant role in the US economy.
   • The Fed is the central bank responsible for monetary policy. It issues currency, sets interest rates, and manages the money supply.
   • When the US government needs to borrow money (to cover deficits or fund programs), it often does so by issuing Treasury bonds. The Fed can buy these bonds, effectively creating new money in the process.
   • This mechanism has implications for inflation, interest rates, and the overall economy.
5. The Financial Matrix and 1913:
   • The reference to the "Financial Matrix" and 1913 likely alludes to the creation of the Federal Reserve.
   • Indeed, the Federal Reserve Act was passed in 1913, establishing the Fed as the lender of last resort and granting it significant powers.
   • Some critics argue that this centralization of monetary authority has led to unintended consequences, including the accumulation of debt.
6. Our Collective Responsibility:
   • As taxpayers, we're all part of this system. Debt is not an abstract concept—it affects our future and the next generations.
   • It's essential to stay informed and engage in discussions about fiscal responsibility and economic policies.

Remember, understanding the national debt involves more than just raw numbers; it's about the impact on our lives, our children's lives, and the stability of our nation. Let's keep seeking the truth and advocating for responsible financial management! 🇺🇸💡

If you have any more questions or want to explore related topics, feel free to ask! 😊