[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 134 (Wednesday, October 1, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S10290]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       THE VERY BAD DEBT BOXSCORE

  Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, at the close of business yesterday, 
Tuesday, September 30, 1997, the Federal debt stood at 
$5,413,146,011,397.34. (Five trillion, four hundred thirteen billion, 
one hundred forty-six million, eleven thousand, three hundred ninety-
seven dollars and thirty-four cents)
  One year ago, September 30, 1996, the Federal debt stood at 
$5,224,811,000,000. (Five trillion, two hundred twenty-four billion, 
eight hundred eleven million)
  Five years ago, September 30, 1992, the Federal debt stood at 
$4,064,621,000,000. (Four trillion, sixty-four billion, six hundred 
twenty-one million)
  Ten years ago, September 30, 1987, the Federal debt stood at 
$2,350,277,000,000 (Two trillion, three hundred fifty billion, two 
hundred seventy-seven million) which reflects a debt increase of more 
than $3 trillion--$3,062,869,011,397.34 (Three trillion, sixty-two 
billion, eight hundred sixty-nine million, eleven thousand, three 
hundred ninety-seven dollars and thirty-four cents) during the past 10 
years.

                          ____________________