PUL$E: 🤫America's Silent Economic Storm

Samson Jagoras 30.Oct.2023

In political scandals, none has had a more profound and lasting impact on America than the relentless rise of federal debt as a percentage of GDP. To say it is a critical issue is an understatement; it's arguably the most significant fiscal challenge the nation has ever faced.

The Unprecedented Post-Covid Debt Surge

Post-Covid, the United States finds itself in uncharted territory. The federal debt as a percentage of GDP has skyrocketed to levels never seen before, surpassing even the staggering figures witnessed during World War II. This astronomical increase in debt is not without consequences; it represents a substantial transfer of wealth from future generations to the present. In simpler terms, we are robbing our children of economic opportunities to fund our current discretionary spending and public-sector consumption.

The Great Concern

The crux of the matter is this: what are we achieving with this colossal debt? The answer is disheartening. We are not investing in projects or initiatives that will generate returns or create opportunities for future generations. Our infrastructure is crumbling, our education system is far from world-class, and our military preparedness leaves much to be desired.

Worsening Projections

As dire as the situation may seem now, the forecast for the future is even grimmer. Ten years from now, the debt-to-GDP ratio is projected to exceed 130%. Fast forward twenty years, and it could cross the 160% mark. And if this trajectory continues, we may find ourselves close to 200% in debt relative to GDP in just three decades.

Wolf in Sheep Clothing

If you think this issue results from one political party's actions, think again. After World War II, every U.S. president tried to reduce the debt-to-GDP ratio, even President Jimmy Carter, whose administration saw it decrease to a post-war low of 31%. However, the situation has taken a turn for the worse since then. With the exception of Bill Clinton, virtually every president in recent history has overseen massive increases in the debt-to-GDP ratio.

For instance, during Ronald Reagan's presidency, it grew from 31% to 51%. Under George W. Bush, it surged from 55% to 82%. The Obama administration allowed it to cross the 100% threshold for the first time since the Roosevelt era. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, Trump's tenure saw the ratio grow to 105%, rising to 126% during the crisis. As for the current administration, hopes for a significant change in direction remain uncertain.

The Dilemma and Our Role as Entrepreneurs

In the face of this mounting debt crisis, finding a clear solution seems elusive. Growing out of this problem appears unlikely, and political consensus on substantial spending cuts is scarce. This leaves us with the uncomfortable possibility of debasing the dollar and letting inflation run rampant to make servicing debt more manageable. However, the consequences of such a scenario are concerning.

As entrepreneurs, we should be deeply concerned about the implications of this ever-increasing debt burden. It affects our ability to invest, grow our businesses, and secure a prosperous future for ourselves and future generations. The time for passive concern has passed. We must be proactive in seeking solutions and advocating for responsible fiscal policies.

The escalating federal debt crisis is not just a political issue; it's an economic challenge that directly impacts the entrepreneurial landscape. As business leaders, we cannot afford to remain silent spectators. It's time to demand accountability, responsible fiscal management, and a brighter future for ourselves and the generations we hope to inspire. The path to change begins with awareness and action, and we must be at the forefront of this movement for a more prosperous America.