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Ten questions about the debt ceiling

Here's a primer on the debt ceiling, and what can happen if the United States bumps up against it. Here's a primer on the debt ceiling, and what can happen if the United States bumps up against it.

Here's a primer on the debt ceiling, and what can happen if the United States bumps up against it.

Louis Jacobson
By Louis Jacobson October 13, 2013

For something that could have a profound effect on the nation’s economy, the debt ceiling is a pretty arcane topic. But not much longer! PolitiFact's national staff looked at 10 questions and answers to shine some light on the subject. The questions include:

• So, what is this "debt ceiling"?

• What actually happens if we hit the debt ceiling?

• And, last but not least: How would ordinary Americans be hurt?

Click here to read the analysis.

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Ten questions about the debt ceiling