America's Growing Debt Problem Needs Young Voices

America owes $31.5 trillion in debt - the highest level since 1946. Each year, the government spends more money than it brings in through taxes, so it has to borrow more. By 2054, experts predict our debt will be nearly twice the size of our entire economy. This creates big problems: less money for schools, roads, and research; slower economic growth; and higher taxes for young people in the future. The Up to Us organization wants young Americans to speak up about this issue and push for solutions. They believe fixing America's debt isn't about politics - it's about basic math. If we don't act now, today's students will inherit a much harder economic situation when they become adults and retirees. The organization offers ways for young people to get involved, learn more, and become leaders on fiscal policy issues that will affect their entire lives.

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MoneyHow National Debt Affects Your Money and FutureThe national debt is money the U.S. government owes to people and other countries. When this debt gets too big, it can hurt everyone's finances. It could make it harder and more expensive to get loans for homes or start businesses. By 2053, the government will spend more money just paying interest on debt than on schools, roads, and research combined. This means less money for important things that help communities grow. Young people will be especially affected - one study showed families could lose $16,000 in income by 2048. The debt also takes money away from healthcare, education, and other vital services. About one-third of the debt is owed to other countries. The Up to Us organization teaches young people about this issue and encourages them to talk to their representatives. They believe everyone should care about fiscal policy, whether you care about healthcare, education, clean energy, or defense. You can sign a pledge to show you care about America's financial future and get involved in your community.

VoiceDaedalus Journal: War and American Democracy ResearchDaedalus is a scholarly journal published by the American Academy of Arts and Sciences that explores big questions about society. Their Fall 2025 issue examines how wars have shaped American democracy over time. The journal features essays by university professors and experts who study topics like how war has given more power to the president, how the Supreme Court handles security issues, and how war appears in movies and TV shows. Daedalus covers many subjects including democracy, justice, global affairs, and social health. Past issues have looked at changing rules of war, the common good in democracy, Indigenous knowledge, and immigration and race in America. This is an academic publication meant for scholars, researchers, and people who want to deeply understand complex social and political issues. Readers can browse current and past issues online, sign up for alerts about new publications, and donate to support the Academy's work.