U.S. National Debt Crosses $40 Trillion

On Aug. 18, 2026, the United States' national debt surpassed a record $40 trillion, a staggering milestone as defense costs, social programs and interest on the burgeoning deficit make up an enormous share of federal spending.

The milestone figure was recorded just five months after the U.S. hit a record $39 trillion debt in March. It reached $38 trillion five months before that, in October 2025.

The unprecedented $40 trillion figure highlights competing administration priorities, from boosting defense spending upon which the U.S. relies to carry out President Donald Trump's almost-6-month-old war in Iran to lowering the cost of gas and groceries.

Please select this link to read the complete article from Fast Company.