The US national debt has exceeded $39 trillion for the first time.

The United States national debt has exceeded $39 trillion for the first time in history, according to data from the US Treasury Department released on March 18.

It is noted that the $38 trillion mark was previously surpassed at the end of October 2025, and the $37 trillion mark was reached in August of the same year.

According to the Associated Press, the significant figure highlights the conflicting priorities of President Donald Trump's administration, including massive tax cuts, increased defense spending, and immigration enforcement funding.

An increase in the national debt, as the U.S. Government Accountability Office explains, could lead to higher interest rates on mortgages and auto loans, lower wages due to a reduction in the financial resources of businesses, and higher costs of goods and services.

Michael Peterson, chairman of the nonprofit Peter G. Peterson Foundation, stated that the current rate of debt growth is deeply concerning and creates a significant financial burden for future generations. He estimates that if the current trend continues, the national debt could exceed $40 trillion even before the House and Senate elections, expected in early November.

In recent years, the US national debt has seen rapid growth amid geopolitical conflicts and wars, tax cuts, and significant spending to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

The US military campaign in Iran has already cost more than $12 billion, according to Kevin Hassett, director of the US National Economic Council.