The Effects of the National Debt on the United States as a Superpower

The hard power capabilities of the U.S., economics and military, are essential for the U.S. to remain a superpower. As the country comes out of the recession and the economy begins to grow again, spending needs to be reined in. Next, the country needs to keep interest outlays below 2 of GDP and revenue intake around the historical normal of 18 of GDP. Additionally, the main mandatory spending programs, Social Security and Medicare, need some gradual changes - tax increases and modified eligibility requirements - as the baby boom generation retires. This keeps mandatory spending from consuming the federal budget and negatively affecting discretionary spending defense budget. Secretary Gates made a commitment in January 2011 to prevent growth in the defense budget over the next five years but advised against serious cuts in order to keep the military postured to respond globally with the necessary personnel and equipment. As the national leadership makes tough fiscal choices ahead, the U.S. remains a superpower despite the countrys federal debt situation.