https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/the-budget-deficit-swells-while-the-cost-of-debt-risesContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/the-budget-deficit-swells-while-the-cost-of-debt-riseshttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/the-budget-deficit-swells-while-the-cost-of-debt-rises#u151992Sat, 24 Oct 2026 12:56:32 +0000The United States closed fiscal year 2026 with a budget deficit of $1.992 trillion, marking the 25th consecutive year in the red and the largest shortfall since the pandemic. Reported by the Treasury Department, the latest deficit reflects a 12% increase from the prior fiscal year's $1.775 trillion shortfall. Net interest costs reached $1.05 trillion, surpassing defense spending as borrowing costs escalate under President Donald Trump. This surge underscores the deepening strain on national finances as America handles a $40 trillion debt load.Why it mattersThe swelling deficit highlights