To the Editor:
Who is responsible for the national debt? Who was in office in 2022?
Facts matter. The national debt has been climbing for a long time. Almost every president since 1863 has added to the debt, but look at the facts and then remember who was in office during that time.
The U.S. national debt began at $75 million in 1790 to cover Revolutionary War expenses, was completely paid off in 1835, and has since grown to more than $39 trillion. Major historical escalations occurred during World War II, the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The gross debt first reached milestones in the following landmark years:
- 1982: Surpassed $1 trillion (under President Ronald Reagan)
- Donald Trump (First Term: 2017–2021): Added approximately $7.8 trillion, largely impacted by emergency COVID-19 relief legislation.
- Barack Obama (Two Terms: 2009–2017): Added approximately $9.3 trillion total, driven by economic collapse, spending on “shovel-ready” jobs, Obamacare and green energy.
- Joe Biden (2021–2025): Added roughly $8.45 trillion (30.5% increase) during his term, largely attributed to the Green New Deal, stimulus checks and COVID giveaways.
Dr. Tyler Nelson
Village of Rio Grande