May 22, 2023

What’s really at the heart of the debt limit debate?

Stefani Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images

In a special episode, we explore what’s at stake in the fight over the debt ceiling and what it reveals about the nature of money.

Segments From this episode

National Debt

The messy money reality at the center of the debt ceiling fight

by Kai Ryssdal , Richard Cunningham and Maria Hollenhorst

May 22, 2023

Raising the federal government’s borrowing limit isn’t about spending. It’s about how money works.

Unless the White House and Congressional leaders can make a deal to lift or suspend the debt limit, the U.S. could default on its debts as soon as June 1.

Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

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Music from the episode

French Letter J-Walk

Supalonely BENEE, Gus Dapperton

About Damn Time Lizzo

The team

Nancy Farghalli Executive Producer

Maria Hollenhorst Producer II

Andie Corban Producer I

Sarah Leeson Producer I

Sean McHenry Director & Associate Producer II

Richard Cunningham Associate Producer I

Dylan Miettinen Associate Digital Producer

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