STATEHOUSE (Feb. 17, 2026) – A resolution co-authored by State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) 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.
Heaton 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.
"Our national debt is more than just a number on a balance sheet – it's a direct reflection of the choices we're making for our children and grandchildren," said Heaton, who serves on Ways and Means and chairs the Higher Education Subcommittee. "If we're serious about protecting their future, we have to be serious about restoring fiscal responsibility. This resolution recognizes that long-term financial health is essential to preserving opportunity, stability and the American dream for the next generation."
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.
Heaton 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.
"A growing national debt is not only an economic issue, but also a national security concern," Heaton said. "When the federal government spends beyond its means year after year, it weakens our strategic position and limits our ability to respond to emerging threats."
The resolution now moves to the full House of Representatives for consideration. To learn more about HR 28 and follow session, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) represents House District 46,
which includes all of Owen County, and portions of Clay, Monroe and Vigo counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
