Fact Check: The U.S. government spends on defense and social programs.

Fact Check: "The U.S. government spends on defense and social programs."

What We Know

The U.S. government allocates a significant portion of its budget to both defense and social programs. According to the U.S. Treasury Fiscal Data, federal spending is categorized into two primary types: mandatory and discretionary. Mandatory spending, which includes programs like Social Security and Medicare, constitutes nearly two-thirds of annual federal spending. Discretionary spending, which requires annual approval from Congress, often includes funding for national defense and various social services.

In fiscal year 2024, discretionary outlays totaled approximately $1.8 trillion, with non-defense programs accounting for more than half of that total. Meanwhile, mandatory spending for the same year reached about $4.1 trillion, with a significant portion directed towards Social Security and Medicare (Congressional Budget Office). This illustrates the dual focus of U.S. government spending on both defense and social welfare.

Analysis

The claim that the U.S. government spends on defense and social programs is supported by substantial data. The U.S. Treasury outlines that federal spending is essential for various public services, including military expenditures and social welfare programs. The budget is structured to ensure that both defense needs and social programs are funded, reflecting the government's commitment to both national security and the welfare of its citizens.

The Congressional Budget Office provides further insights into the breakdown of discretionary spending, indicating that over half of the discretionary budget is allocated to national defense, while significant funds are also directed towards non-defense programs (CBO). This dual allocation of resources demonstrates a balanced approach to federal spending, addressing both security and social needs.

However, it is important to consider the reliability of the sources. The U.S. Treasury and the Congressional Budget Office are both authoritative entities that provide comprehensive data on federal spending. Their reports are based on extensive analysis and are regularly updated, making them credible sources for understanding government expenditure.

Conclusion

The claim that "The U.S. government spends on defense and social programs" is True. The evidence clearly shows that the federal budget is divided between mandatory spending, which includes social programs, and discretionary spending, which encompasses defense expenditures. Both categories are crucial for the functioning of the government and the well-being of its citizens.

Sources

1. Federal Spending | U.S. Treasury Fiscal Data
2. Graphics | Congressional Budget Office
3. PDF Budget of the United States Government, Fiscal Year 2025
4. PDF FY2025 Defense Appropriations: Summary of Funding - Congress.gov
5. FY2025_Budget_Request_Overview
6. Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) > Budget Materials > Budget2025
7. Department of Defense Releases the President's Fiscal Year 2025 Defense Budget
8. Monthly Budget Review: February 2025