Story perspectives

Government Spending Soars 9,800% Since 1916, Fuels Affordability Crisis

12/10/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Open The Books, a conservative watchdog group, reports per capita government spending rose 9,800% since 1916, reaching $20,474.19 in 2025.
The report links growth to an affordability crisis, noting government spending exceeds average household expenses on essentials like groceries and mortgages.
Open The Books notes discretionary savings from initiatives such as Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency totaled $150 billion, while mandatory Medicare and Social Security spending remains higher.

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Story summary

Open The Books, a conservative watchdog group, reports per capita government spending rose 9,800% since 1916, reaching $20,474.19 in 2025.
The report links growth to an affordability crisis, noting government spending exceeds average household expenses on essentials like groceries and mortgages.
Open The Books notes discretionary savings from initiatives such as Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency totaled $150 billion, while mandatory Medicare and Social Security spending remains higher.