"U.S. National Debt Breaks $34 Trillion Milestone Amid Congressional Budget Battle"

The U.S. public debt has surpassed $34 trillion, a record high, as Congress faces imminent deadlines for federal funding decisions. The increase in debt is attributed to rising federal deficits, with falling tax revenues and increased expenditures. The upcoming negotiations are complicated by the approaching presidential and congressional elections, with Republicans calling for spending cuts and the White House blaming the debt on past tax cuts for the wealthy. The situation puts pressure on lawmakers to find a compromise to avoid a government shutdown and address fiscal responsibilities.