[Page S4581]
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, May 14, 1997, the Federal debt stood at 
$5,339,781,396,107.91. (Five trillion, three hundred thirty-nine 
billion, seven hundred eighty-one million, three hundred ninety-six 
thousand, one hundred seven dollars and ninety-one cents)
  One year ago, May 14, 1996, the Federal debt stood at 
$5,096,217,000,000. (Five trillion, ninety-six billion, two hundred 
seventeen million)
  Five years ago, May 14, 1992, the Federal debt stood at 
$3,893,082,000,000. (Three trillion, eight hundred ninety-three 
billion, eighty-two million)
  Ten years ago, May 14, 1987, the Federal debt stood at 
$2,272,137,000,000. (Two trillion, two hundred seventy-two billion, one 
hundred thirty-seven million)
  Fifteen years ago, May 14, 1982, the Federal debt stood at 
$1,062,129,000,000 (One trillion, sixty-two billion, one hundred 
twenty-nine million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $4 
trillion--$4,277,652,396,107.91 (Four trillion, two hundred seventy-
seven billion, six hundred fifty-two million, three hundred ninety-six 
thousand, one hundred seven dollars and ninety-one cents) during the 
past 15 years.

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