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NATIONAL DEBT CLOCK
Real Time US National Debt Clock | USA Debt Clock.com
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Copyright 1987-2024
| United States National Debt | $36,259,116,884,160.63 |
| United States National Debt Per Person | $105,021.70 |
| United States National Debt Per Household | $272,006.19 |
| Total US Unfunded Liabilities | $126,993,897,105,766.23 |
| Social Security Unfunded Liability | $15,984,802,905,900.33 |
| Medicare Unfunded Liability | $81,279,675,169,814.56 |
| Prescription Drug Unfunded Liability | $20,365,001,886,083.01 |
| National Healthcare Unfunded Liability | $9,364,417,143,968.33 |
| Total US Unfunded Liabilities Per Person | $367,827.89 |
| Total US Unfunded Liabilities Per Household | $952,674.23 |
| United States Population | 345,253,584 |
Copyright 1987-2024
(last updated 2024-08-09/Close of previous day debt was $35123327978028.47 )
3/14/25
Chuck Schumer Folded On The Budget Deal
Understanding Baseline Budgeting in the U.S. Government
Understanding Baseline Budgeting in the U.S. Government
Introduction
Budgeting in the United States government is a complex and often contentious process, influenced by economic policies, political priorities, and long-term fiscal planning. One critical concept in federal budgeting is Baseline Budgeting, a methodology that helps policymakers estimate future government spending by assuming that current funding levels will continue with adjustments for inflation and population growth. While this approach allows for structured financial planning, it is also a subject of debate due to its impact on fiscal policy and government spending.
This article explores what Baseline Budgeting is, how it works, its advantages and disadvantages, and how it influences federal spending decisions.
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What Is Baseline Budgeting?
Baseline Budgeting is a method used by the U.S. government to project future government expenditures based on existing spending levels. Instead of starting from zero each fiscal year, this method assumes that the previous year’s budget will serve as a foundation, with built-in adjustments for factors like:
- Inflation
- Population growth
- Economic changes
- New legislative requirements
This means that even if no new programs are introduced, government spending is likely to increase each year simply because of these adjustments.
For example, if a government program received $100 billion last year, and inflation is projected at 2%, the baseline for the next year’s budget might automatically rise to $102 billion, regardless of whether new funding needs arise.
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The Process of Baseline Budgeting
The process of Baseline Budgeting involves several steps, typically overseen by agencies such as the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). Here’s how it works:
1. Establishing the Baseline
Each fiscal year, federal agencies use the previous year’s budget as a starting point. This serves as the baseline for projections, ensuring continuity in funding.
2. Adjusting for Inflation
The CBO applies an inflation factor to reflect expected changes in the economy. This adjustment prevents the erosion of purchasing power due to rising costs.
3. Adjusting for Population Growth and Other Factors
Programs such as Social Security and Medicare are affected by population changes. If the number of retirees grows, the budget for these programs will automatically increase.
4. Accounting for Legislative Changes
Any laws passed that affect spending are factored into the baseline. For example, if Congress enacts a new defense spending program, that expenditure is incorporated into future projections.
5. Projecting Future Spending
With all these adjustments, the CBO provides estimates for future spending over a 10-year period to help guide budgetary decisions.
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Advantages of Baseline Budgeting
1. Provides Stability and Predictability
Baseline Budgeting ensures that essential government programs—such as Social Security, Medicare, and defense—are funded consistently. This prevents disruptions in government services due to sudden budget cuts.
2. Simplifies Budget Planning
By using the previous year’s budget as a reference, policymakers do not need to rebuild the budget from scratch each year. This saves time and allows for a structured financial approach.
3. Adjusts for Inflation and Economic Changes
Without automatic inflation adjustments, many programs would struggle to maintain their current level of services. Baseline Budgeting ensures that funding keeps up with rising costs.
4. Reduces Political Conflict Over Routine Funding
Since baseline adjustments occur automatically, debates over routine funding are minimized. This allows Congress to focus on discretionary spending and policy priorities.
Criticisms of Baseline Budgeting
While Baseline Budgeting has its advantages, it is also a controversial practice. Critics argue that it encourages government expansion and lacks fiscal discipline.
1. Encourages Automatic Spending Increases
Since Baseline Budgeting assumes that spending will rise each year, it can lead to unchecked government growth. Critics argue that this approach makes it easier for programs to receive increased funding without proper evaluation.
2. Lacks Accountability for Spending Efficiency
Baseline Budgeting does not require agencies to justify their current funding levels. Programs may continue receiving budget increases without assessing whether they are efficient or effective.
3. Misleads the Public on Budget "Cuts"
Politicians often claim that a program is facing budget cuts when in reality, it is simply receiving a smaller-than-expected increase. For example, if a program was projected to receive a 5% increase but only gets a 3% increase, some may describe this as a cut, even though spending is still growing.
4. Reduces Incentives for Cost-Saving Reforms
Since budgets increase automatically, there is little motivation for agencies to cut wasteful spending or improve efficiency. This can lead to government bloat and inefficiencies over time.
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Baseline Budgeting vs. Zero-Based Budgeting
An alternative approach to Baseline Budgeting is Zero-Based Budgeting (ZBB), which requires each program to justify its expenses from scratch every year. Here’s a comparison:
| Feature | Baseline Budgeting | Zero-Based Budgeting |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Point | Previous year's budget | Starts from zero |
| Adjustments | Automatic (inflation, population) | Must be justified |
| Spending Growth | Typically increases | Can increase or decrease |
| Efficiency Focus | Limited | High, since programs must justify expenses |
| Political Impact | Less conflict over funding | More scrutiny and debate |
While Zero-Based Budgeting promotes efficiency, it is also far more time-consuming and complex, making it less practical for large-scale federal budgeting.
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How Baseline Budgeting Affects Government Spending and Deficits
Baseline Budgeting has a significant impact on the U.S. economy, particularly in national debt and budget deficits. Since spending automatically increases, it contributes to the federal deficit unless revenue (tax income) grows at the same pace. Key effects include:
1. Increases Government Spending Over Time
With each budget cycle, government spending grows, leading to larger federal budgets. Over decades, this compounding effect significantly increases total expenditures.
2. Contributes to Long-Term Deficit Growth
If tax revenue does not keep up with spending growth, the government runs a budget deficit, requiring borrowing. This adds to the national debt, which currently exceeds $34 trillion.
3. Limits Congressional Flexibility
With a large portion of the budget automatically growing, Congress has limited flexibility to make significant spending cuts. Most of the federal budget is mandatory spending (such as Social Security and Medicare), leaving little room for adjustments.
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Reforming Baseline Budgeting
Some policymakers advocate for reforms to increase transparency and fiscal responsibility in Baseline Budgeting. Potential reforms include:
1. Requiring Justification for Budget Increases
Agencies could be required to provide cost-benefit analyses before receiving automatic increases.
2. Implementing Hybrid Budgeting Approaches
A mix of Baseline Budgeting and Zero-Based Budgeting could improve efficiency while maintaining stability.
3. Improving Public Understanding
More transparency in budgetary language could help the public understand when spending is truly being "cut" versus growing at a slower rate.
4. Strengthening Spending Oversight
Congressional oversight committees could scrutinize automatic spending increases to identify wasteful expenditures.
Conclusion
Baseline Budgeting plays a crucial role in the U.S. government’s financial planning by ensuring continuity in funding and adjusting for inflation and economic changes. However, it also contributes to automatic spending growth, limiting fiscal flexibility and potentially increasing national debt. While the method has benefits, reforming it to enhance efficiency, transparency, and fiscal discipline could lead to better budget management.
Ultimately, while Baseline Budgeting simplifies the budgeting process, policymakers must carefully balance its advantages against the need for greater accountability in government spending.
#Funding #USGOVERNMENT #BaselineBudgeting #Budgeting #GovernmentShutdown #CR #ContinuingResolution
3/12/25
3/10/25
Tips For Taking Care Of Your Car
Taking care of your car is essential to ensure its longevity, performance, and safety. Here are some general car care tips:
Tips For Taking Care Of Your Car
Regular Maintenance
1. Oil Changes: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for oil change intervals, typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on the type of oil and your driving conditions.
2. Tire Care: Check tire pressure monthly and rotate tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure even wear.
3. Brake Inspection: Have your brakes checked regularly, especially if you notice any squeaking, grinding, or reduced responsiveness.
4. Fluid Levels: Regularly check and top off essential fluids, including coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
5. Air Filter: Replace the air filter as recommended, usually every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, to ensure optimal engine performance.
Cleaning and Protection
1. Washing: Wash your car regularly to remove dirt, salt, and grime that can damage the paint and undercarriage.
2. Waxing: Wax your car every few months to protect the paint and give it a shiny finish.
3. Interior Cleaning: Vacuum the interior regularly and use appropriate cleaners for upholstery and dashboards to keep the cabin fresh and clean.
4. Window Care: Clean the windows inside and out for better visibility and to prevent streaks.
Seasonal Care
1. Winter: Use winter tires if you live in a snowy area, and check your battery, antifreeze, and heater.
2. Summer: Ensure your air conditioning is working properly and check coolant levels to prevent overheating.
Driving Habits
1. Smooth Driving: Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking to reduce wear and tear on your car.
2. Load Management: Do not overload your car, as it can strain the engine, brakes, and suspension.
Emergency Preparedness
1. Emergency Kit: Keep an emergency kit in your car with items like a first-aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, and basic tools.
2. Spare Tire: Ensure your spare tire is in good condition and that you have the necessary tools to change a tire.
Professional Check-ups
1. Regular Inspections: Have your car inspected by a professional mechanic at least once a year or as recommended by your car’s manufacturer.
2. Recall Notices: Stay informed about any recall notices and address them promptly.
By following these tips, you can keep your car in excellent condition, ensuring it runs smoothly and safely for years to come.
What Is The Correlation Between Time Change and Heart Attacks?
What Is The Correlation Between Time Change and Heart Attacks?
Research has shown a correlation between the time change associated with Daylight Saving Time (DST) and an increase in heart attacks, particularly in the days following the spring transition when clocks are moved forward by one hour. Here are some key points from the studies:
1. Spring Transition (Losing an Hour): The spring transition, where clocks move forward and an hour of sleep is lost, has been associated with a temporary increase in the incidence of heart attacks. Studies have reported an increase of around 10-24% in heart attack rates in the days following this transition. The disruption in sleep patterns and circadian rhythms is believed to play a role.
2. Fall Transition (Gaining an Hour): Conversely, the fall transition, when clocks are set back and people gain an extra hour of sleep, has been associated with a slight decrease in heart attack rates. This suggests that the additional sleep may have a protective effect.
3. Mechanisms: The increase in heart attacks during the spring transition is thought to be linked to sleep deprivation, changes in circadian rhythms, and increased stress on the body. These factors can contribute to higher blood pressure, inflammation, and other physiological changes that may trigger cardiovascular events in susceptible individuals.
4. Population Impact: While the relative increase in heart attacks is notable, the absolute number of additional cases is relatively small. However, the findings highlight the importance of sleep and circadian rhythm regulation for cardiovascular health.
5. Policy Implications: Some researchers and policymakers have debated the merits of DST, citing these health impacts as one reason to reconsider or eliminate the practice.
In summary, the spring transition to DST is associated with a short-term increase in heart attacks, likely due to sleep disruption and circadian rhythm changes, while the fall transition may have a slight protective effect. These findings underscore the importance of maintaining consistent sleep patterns and managing cardiovascular risk factors.
#DaylightSavingTime #Health #Heart
How springing forward to daylight saving time could affect your health — and how to prepare
How springing forward to daylight saving time could affect your health — and how to prepare
Research has shown a correlation between the time change associated with Daylight Saving Time (DST) and an increase in heart attacks, particularly in the days following the spring transition when clocks are moved forward by one hour. Here are some key points from the studies:
1. Spring Transition (Losing an Hour): The spring transition, where clocks move forward and an hour of sleep is lost, has been associated with a temporary increase in the incidence of heart attacks. Studies have reported an increase of around 10-24% in heart attack rates in the days following this transition. The disruption in sleep patterns and circadian rhythms is believed to play a role.
2. Fall Transition (Gaining an Hour): Conversely, the fall transition, when clocks are set back and people gain an extra hour of sleep, has been associated with a slight decrease in heart attack rates. This suggests that the additional sleep may have a protective effect.
3. Mechanisms: The increase in heart attacks during the spring transition is thought to be linked to sleep deprivation, changes in circadian rhythms, and increased stress on the body. These factors can contribute to higher blood pressure, inflammation, and other physiological changes that may trigger cardiovascular events in susceptible individuals.
4. Population Impact: While the relative increase in heart attacks is notable, the absolute number of additional cases is relatively small. However, the findings highlight the importance of sleep and circadian rhythm regulation for cardiovascular health.
5. Policy Implications: Some researchers and policymakers have debated the merits of DST, citing these health impacts as one reason to reconsider or eliminate the practice.
In summary, the spring transition to DST is associated with a short-term increase in heart attacks, likely due to sleep disruption and circadian rhythm changes, while the fall transition may have a slight protective effect. These findings underscore the importance of maintaining consistent sleep patterns and managing cardiovascular risk factors.
#DaylightSavingTime #Health #Heart
3/8/25
The Social Security Ponzi Scheme By The Numbers
The PONZI SCHEME - By The Numb3rs:
Okay, does this make sense?
The Social Security Program was started in 1935 by the Roosevelt Administration. The age to receive benefits was 65. In 1956 it was changed to 62 for Women. In 1935, the average life expectancy in the United States was 59.9 years for men and 63.9 years for women. Right there tells you they didn't plan on you living long enough to get anything as the years went along. Then, when people started living longer, and more people were added to the recipient rolls for whatever reason, the system was and is overwhelmed.
Gene Hackman was 95 when he died. Social Security wasn't around when he was born and living to be 95 was totally uncommon for a whole society at that time. The people that designed the system so wish they could ROLL OVER IN THEIR BEDS [ALIVE!!!] RIGHT NOW.
They're looking down and probably wondering, "Why haven't those idiots changed or adjusted Social Security by now? They went to the Moon. And how do they live so long with that bogus healthcare system driven by pill producers?"
At this point they need to simply let people keep their own money. Some teachers and Government workers aren't in that program. They need to be open and honest with the numbers and stop playing off of people's emotions. The program will burst and fail hard at some point. Just because we live longer doesn't mean we can work longer.
#SocialSecurity #Ponzi #PonziScheme #Government #DOGE
3/7/25
Ukraine and NATO Need More Than Just Our Money
BESIDES THE MONEY, THIS IS WHY UKRAINE AND NATO NEEDS THE US BEYOND OUR MONEY: [They Don't Make The Right STUFF to Fight Russia] THEY DEPEND ON US TO FIGHT RUSSIA!!!
The United States and Europe have different defense industrial bases, and their munitions production capabilities reflect their respective strategic priorities, historical investments, and industrial capacities. Here’s a breakdown of the munitions the U.S. produces that Europe does not (or produces in limited quantities), and the munitions Europe produces but may not produce enough of to sustain a prolonged conflict with Russia:
Munitions the U.S. Produces That Europe Does Not (or Produces in Limited Quantities):
1. Long-Range Precision Munitions:
- Tomahawk Cruise Missiles: The U.S. has a significant stockpile and production capacity for long-range cruise missiles like the Tomahawk, which Europe does not produce in comparable quantities.
- JASSM (Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile): A stealthy, long-range air-launched cruise missile produced by the U.S., with no direct European equivalent.
- LRASM (Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile): A advanced anti-ship missile with no European counterpart.
2. Hypersonic Weapons:
- The U.S. is developing hypersonic missiles (e.g., AGM-183A ARRW, LRHW), while Europe lags behind in this area.
3. Advanced Air-to-Air Missiles:
- AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-260 JATM:** The U.S. produces advanced beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles, which Europe does not produce in the same quantities or with the same technological sophistication.
4. Heavy Bombs and Guided Munitions:
- GBU-43/B MOAB (Massive Ordnance Air Blast):
The U.S. has unique large-yield bombs that Europe does not produce.
- JDAM-ER (Joint Direct Attack Munition Extended Range): The U.S. produces large quantities of precision-guided bombs, while Europe relies more on imports or limited domestic production.
5. Ballistic Missiles:
- The U.S. has a significant stockpile of ballistic missiles (e.g., ATACMS), while Europe has largely abandoned this category of weapons.
6. Naval Munitions:
- Standard Missiles (SM-2, SM-6):
Advanced naval air defense and anti-ballistic missiles produced by the U.S., with no direct European equivalent.
- Harpoon and Naval Strike Missiles: While Europe produces some anti-ship missiles, the U.S. has a larger and more diversified stockpile.
7. Artillery Shells (155mm):
- The U.S. has significantly ramped up production of 155mm artillery shells (aiming for 100,000+ per month by 2025), while European production remains lower.
Munitions Europe Produces but Does Not Produce Enough Of:
1. 155mm Artillery Shells:
- Europe has struggled to meet the demand for 155mm shells, which are critical for Ukraine’s fight against Russia. While countries like Germany, France, and Poland produce these shells, their combined output is insufficient for a prolonged conflict.
2. Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs):
- Europe produces ATGMs like the Spike (Israel/Germany) and Javelin (co-produced with the U.S.), but production capacity is limited compared to demand.
3. Short-Range Air Defense Systems (SHORAD):
- Europe produces systems like the IRIS-T SLM (Germany) and CAMM (UK), but these are in short supply and high demand.
4. Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS):
- Europe produces systems like the M270 and MARS II, but production rates are low, and stockpiles are limited.
5. Ammunition for Small Arms:
- Europe produces small arms ammunition (e.g., 5.56mm, 7.62mm), but production capacity is insufficient to meet wartime demands.
6. Cruise Missiles:
- Europe produces some cruise missiles (e.g., Storm Shadow/SCALP), but stockpiles are limited, and production rates are low.
7. Drones and Loitering Munitions:
- Europe is developing drones and loitering munitions (e.g., Rheinmetall’s LUNA drones), but production is not yet at scale.
8. Electronic Warfare (EW) Systems:
- Europe produces EW systems, but these are often in limited quantities and not standardized across NATO.
Key Challenges for Europe:
- Fragmented Defense Industry:
Europe’s defense industry is fragmented across multiple countries, leading to inefficiencies and duplication of efforts.
- Underinvestment:Decades of underinvestment in defense production have left Europe with limited surge capacity.
- Supply Chain Issues:Europe relies on global supply chains for critical components, which can be disrupted during a conflict.
#Ukraine #Russia #NATO #MUNNITIONS
Conclusion:
The U.S. has a significant advantage in producing advanced, long-range precision munitions and maintaining large stockpiles of key weapons. Europe, while capable of producing many critical munitions, lacks the scale and industrial capacity to sustain a prolonged high-intensity conflict without U.S. support. Both regions are working to address these gaps, but it will take time to build the necessary production capacity.
#Europe #Russia #Ukraine #Military #MUNNITIONS
3/6/25
Democrats Are Back To Their Method of Operation
Democrats are going back to their M.O., scaring people with Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare. THOSE PROGRAMS ALL NEED TO BE ADJUSTED/CUT. Every year fewer and fewer are paying in, and more and more people are receiving benefits. The ratios of people paying in and receiving are nothing like the ratios when those programs were developed.
Also, people are getting benefits for disabilities and diseases that weren't even around when those programs started. Today a 3rd Grader with an IEP qualifies for a Social Security check. A Whistleblower from the Chicago area described how the were trained to sign up ILLEGALS for Social Security benefits. They coaxed the Migrants to bring up ANY ailment they could think of. How much has a 3rd grader or an ILLEGAL paid into the system?
Another thing the DEMS are falling back on is the reintroduction of the John Lewis voting act. The Democrats always say "Democracy". We don't live in a Democracy. We live in a Constitutional Republic. This gives a voice to small populated states. Otherwise LA, Chicago, and NYC would be enough BLUE votes Democrats will always win the Whitehouse. They also want D.C. and Puerto Rico to be states, as well as stack the courts. The words they use tell you they want "EVERY AMERICAN" to vote...even ILLEGALS.
Once again they are emotionally charging their uninformed BASE. They're already trying to cheat in 2026.
Rep. Sewell reintroduces John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act in House
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