I.O.U.S.A. 2008

The documentary delves into the complexities of the U.S. economy, as narrated by Bixby and Walker, who outline four critical deficits: the budget, savings, balance of payments, and leadership. As of its release in early 2008, they highlight the staggering national debt of over $9.6 trillion, which translates to approximately $30,000 per American citizen.

Throughout history, U.S. presidents, starting with Ronald Reagan, have raised alarms regarding the impending debt crisis, yet little has been done to remedy the issue. Archival footage enriches the documentary, featuring icons like Humphrey Bogart, Stephen Colbert, and Brian Williams alongside ten former presidents, such as Franklin Delano Roosevelt and George W. Bush. By February 2007, U.S. federal debt had escalated to $8.7 trillion, equating to 64% of the GDP, and reflecting a troubling trend that saw the debt more than doubling during Bush’s presidency.

This persistent issue is exacerbated by the impending social security payments to the aging baby boom generation. The film also discusses America’s deep-rooted spending habits, particularly during significant conflicts like World War II and the Iraq War.

David Walker, the controller general of the USA in 2007, has been tirelessly campaigning across the nation to shed light on the ramifications of fiscal irresponsibility. A lack of savings from both individuals and the government leads to insufficient investment capital, placing the U.S. in an increasingly vulnerable position. The trade deficit prominently features, with America relying heavily on foreign nations like China, which holds a significant portion of U.S. treasury bonds.

Key issues illustrated include a shocking $53 trillion in unfunded liabilities arising from essential benefit programs such as Medicare and Social Security, which could necessitate drastic tax hikes or severe cuts to government spending. Historical debts paint a stark picture: from a mere $75 million at the nation’s founding to soaring figures post-World War periods.

The film further elaborates on the emerging savings deficit stemming from American consumers living beyond their means. As the national savings rate plummets from 12.4% in the 1960s to a negative -2.9% in the 2000s, it underscores a culture of debt, creating significant inflationary pressures and prompting the Federal Reserve to take various actions for stability.

Additionally, the balance of payments issue surfaces, highlighting the massive trade deficit as the U.S. outsources more than it produces, draining financial resources while welcoming foreign ownership of its assets. The film explains how China’s overwhelming trade surplus places it in a powerful position, with its ownership of over $477 billion in U.S. debt.

Ultimately, the film pinpoints the leadership deficit, emphasizing the absence of decisive leaders willing to advocate for necessary reforms, increased savings, and reduced reliance on imports. Each U.S. household now bears an average debt of $90,000, as issues compounded during George W. Bush’s administration reveal troubling trends—a doubling of foreign debt and huge tax cuts paired with extensive military spending. As the consequences loom, the documentary raises an urgent call for awareness and action before the nation’s debt spirals into unmanageable territory, predicting that by 2040, debt-to-GDP ratios could soar to 244%.