National debt could rise under Trump, study finds

Research from the nonpartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget reveals that though both presidential candidates’ policy proposals would increase the national debt, former President Donald Trump’s plans would add over $7.5 trillion to the deficit—more than double the ~$3 trillion proposed by Vice President Kamala Harris.

Trump’s plans include extending his 2017 tax cuts, which would add over $5 trillion over ten years, and eliminating taxes on overtime wages, Social Security benefits, and tips, which would cost an additional $3.6 trillion.

In contrast, Harris focuses on extending tax cuts for individuals earning under $400,000, costing about $3 trillion, while expanding the child tax credit and earned income tax credit at approximately $1.35 trillion.

While both candidates aim to raise federal revenue, economic analysts caution that Trump’s tariffs might lead to higher consumer prices, undermining economic output.

The national debt is currently at $35.7 trillion.