Policy Library
Free the Facts helps Americans learn about the policies and programs that impact their lives.
POLICY TOPICS
Our core issue areas have three things in common:
- They represent promises that the federal government has made to citizens, particularly vulnerable populations.
- They make up a large percentage of government spending and face serious funding challenges in the near future.
- The next generation will be called upon to address those challenges as leaders and voters.
Policy Primers
Public Policy Primers on Federal Spending,
National Debt, Social Security
Think of our policy primers as a “101” course on some of the country’s biggest public policy challenges. Each primer breaks down the basics, explains why the issue matters, and gives you a clear starting point for understanding the conversation.
Want to dive deeper? Follow the links on the yellow sticky notes throughout each primer, and explore the suggested reading in the Questions for Solutions section.
Federal Budget
The federal budget is how much money the government spends and takes in each year. It includes trillions of dollars for vital programs and services, as well as projected tax revenue. Check out this primer to learn how it works, the challenges it faces, and ideas for improving it.
Learn about the Federal Budget
National Debt
The national debt is the amount of money that the U.S. government has borrowed from — and owes to — its lenders. In 2026, it reached $39 trillion. Check out this primer to find out how we got here, why the debt matters, and what we can do about it.
Learn about the National Debt
Social Security
More than 65 million Americans rely on Social Security for retirement income, survivors benefits, and disability insurance payments. The program is the single-largest expenditure in the federal budget. Learn more about how the program works, its funding challenges, and some ways to address them.
Learn about the Social Security program
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