Oct 25, 2019 - Politics & Policy

U.S. annual budget deficit widens to $984 billion, hitting 7-year high

Marisa Fernandez

US President Donald Trump speaks during a "Keep America Great" rally at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas on October 17, 2019. — President Trump speaks during a "Keep America Great" rally in Dallas, Tex. on Oct. 17. Photo: Nicholas Kamm/AFP via Getty Images

The U.S. Treasury is reporting a 26% increase from the 2018 budget deficit to $984 billion for the fiscal year 2019, the highest it's been in 7 years, the AP reports.

Why it matters: Revenue dropped thanks to the 2017 tax cut and the federal budget that tacked on billions of dollars in spending for the military and other programs, serving as a contrast from President Trump's campaign promises to cut wasteful spending.

What to watch: Forecasts from both the White House and the Congressional Budget Office indicate the deficit will exceed $1 trillion in the current budget year, the AP notes.

CBO estimates the deficit will remain above $1 trillion during the next 10 years.

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U.S. annual budget deficit widens to $984 billion, hitting 7-year high

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