The recession boosted spending
The recession boosted spending

Government spending is up largely because of ever-increasing Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid costs.

Another cause: "Income security" payments, including unemployment benefits and food stamps, rose as people lost work. The stimulus package further expanded such programs, and added spending on infrastructure and education.

There was also the bank bailout (begun under President Bush) and auto rescue (mostly on President Obama's watch).


By Susie Poppick @Money - Last updated April 11 2012: 3:22 PM ET
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