Markets & Economy The U.S. budget deficit just hit almost $2 trillion — and Washington isn’t doing much about it October 16, 2026 · 6:00 pm 1 sources Image: MarketWatch ad slot · in-content video 16:9 Coverage CoverageThe U.S. budget deficit just hit almost $2 trillion — and Washington isn’t doing much about itMarketWatch · October 16, 2026 18:00