WASHINGTON, D.C. December 15, 2025 – U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent touted improving federal finances on Monday, crediting President Trump’s leadership for a significant reduction in the budget deficit compared to the previous administration.
In a post on X, Bessent stated that the calendar year-to-date deficit stands at $1.52 trillion, down 21% from $1.93 trillion during the comparable period last year under President Biden. He projected the full 2025 calendar year deficit-to-GDP ratio at approximately 5.5%, a notable improvement from 6.8% in 2024.
“Thanks to President Trump, the health of the U.S. government’s finances is improving,” Bessent wrote, adding that the administration aims to “grow our way out of debt and into prosperity.”
The figures align with preliminary Treasury Department data, reflecting higher revenues from economic growth and lower spending growth in certain areas since the Trump administration took office in January 2025. Analysts attribute part of the improvement to robust GDP expansion, though the U.S. still faces a substantial absolute deficit amid ongoing spending commitments.
Critics on social media questioned the framing, noting that the deficit remains elevated in historical terms and that calendar-year comparisons can differ from fiscal-year metrics due to timing of receipts and outlays. Some highlighted proposed policies that could increase future borrowing.
The post drew mixed reactions, with supporters praising fiscal progress and detractors arguing for deeper spending cuts to achieve a balanced budget.
The Treasury Department has emphasized energy production, deregulation, and tax policies as drivers of economic strength contributing to better fiscal outcomes. Projections for further deficit reduction depend on sustained growth and congressional action on spending.
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