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The U.S. gross national debt has topped $38 trillion for the first time, Treasury data show, as a government shutdown leaves hundreds of thousands of federal workers unpaid and stalls the economy. Experts warned the impasse adds costs—past closures drained billions, including $11 billion during the 35-day 2018 shutdown. Michael A. Peterson noted the total crossed $37 trillion just two months ago and is growing at twice its 2000-era pace. With credit ratings lowered and interest costs projected to rise, Maya MacGuineas urged action as key trust funds face depletion in seven years.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.