[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 124 (Thursday, September 17, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S10513]
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, 
Wednesday, September 16, 1998, the federal debt stood at 
$5,510,133,012,971.17 (Five trillion, five hundred ten billion, one 
hundred thirty-three million, twelve thousand, nine hundred seventy-one 
dollars and seventeen cents).
  One year ago, September 16, 1997, the federal debt stood at 
$5,391,866,000,000 (Five trillion, three hundred ninety-one billion, 
eight hundred sixty-six million).
  Five years ago, September 16, 1993, the federal debt stood at 
$4,388,882,000,000 (Four trillion, three hundred eighty-eight billion, 
eight hundred eighty-two million).
  Ten years ago, September 16, 1988, the federal debt stood at 
$2,597,622,000,000 (Two trillion, five hundred ninety-seven billion, 
six hundred twenty-two million).
  Fifteen years ago, September 16, 1983, the federal debt stood at 
$1,354,702,000,000 (One trillion, three hundred fifty-four billion, 
seven hundred two million) which reflects a debt increase of more than 
$4 trillion--$4,155,431,012,971.17 (Four trillion, one hundred fifty-
five billion, four hundred thirty-one million, twelve thousand, nine 
hundred seventy-one dollars and seventeen cents) during the past 15 
years.

                          ____________________