STATEHOUSE (Feb. 16, 2026) – A resolution authored by State Rep. Tim O'Brien (R-Evansville) recognizing the seriousness of the U.S. national debt and its threat to national security recently passed the House Ways and Means Committee. It also urges Congress to commit to establishing an effective regular order for budgeting.
At a Monday press event, Gov. Mike Braun and State Comptroller Elise Nieshalla showed their support for the resolution and taking action to lower the national debt. The event was also attended by members of the General Assembly including O'Brien.
O'Brien said House Resolution 28 arose because nearly $8 trillion of national debt is owned by individuals not located in the U.S., and more than $800 billion in debt is owned by individuals in China, posing a serious threat to the country's security. The current outstanding public debt of the U.S. totals more than $38 trillion, with the debt owed per citizen rising to $112,000.
"The national debt has ballooned to a point that is unsustainable and puts our country's security at risk," O'Brien said. "Indiana has been living within its means, passing balanced budgets and prioritizing fiscal responsibility for nearly two decades. This resolution urges leaders in Washington, D.C., to do the same."
Multiple federal officials have noted the national security risks associated with the country's outstanding debt, including former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Michael Mullen and former Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats. Improvements in the business climate in populous countries, along with aging populations around the world, will also likely contribute to higher global interest rates, which would squeeze all U.S. policy priorities, including defense and foreign policy.
O'Brien said this resolution builds upon earlier momentum from state elected officials who have offered their support for Congress and the president to act on reducing the national debt. In a formal letter addressed to President Donald Trump and members of Congress, 90 state elected officials urged Washington, D.C., officials to tackle the debt crisis, including Indiana Gov. Mike Braun, Indiana State Comptroller Elise Nieshalla and Indiana Treasurer Daniel Elliott.
"Our last federal budget surplus occurred in 2001, and the debt has only continued to rise, burdening Hoosiers and citizens across the country," O'Brien said. "Now is the time to reign in deficit spending and reduce this unfathomable amount of national debt that burdens Hoosiers and harms our national security."
The resolution now moves to the full House for consideration. To learn more about HR 28 and follow session, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Tim O'Brien (R-Evansville) represents House District 78,
which includes portions of Vanderburgh and Warrick counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
