Deficit Spending

Intermediate 🏛️ Government / Politics

Definition

When the government spends more money than it has, requiring borrowing. A bipartisan favorite that both parties pretend to oppose while voting for it constantly.

Example Usage

Deficit spending exceeded $3 trillion in response to the pandemic.

Origin

From 'deficit' meaning shortfall, popularized in economic discourse during the 20th century

Fun Fact

Every president since 1969 has overseen deficit spending, yet everyone campaigns on balanced budgets

Source: Economic and budgeting terminology

Related Terms

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