A resolution authored by State Representative Tim O’Brien (R-Evansville) addressing the national debt has advanced through the Indiana House Ways and Means Committee. The measure, House Resolution 28, highlights concerns about the size of the U.S. national debt and its implications for national security. It also calls on Congress to adopt a more disciplined approach to federal budgeting.
Governor Mike Braun and State Comptroller Elise Nieshalla expressed their support for the resolution at a press event attended by members of the General Assembly, including O’Brien.
O’Brien explained that nearly $8 trillion of U.S. national debt is held by foreign individuals, with over $800 billion owned by entities in China. He noted that this situation poses risks to national security as the total outstanding public debt exceeds $38 trillion, translating to about $112,000 owed per citizen.
“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.”
The issue of national security risks tied to high levels of government debt has been raised by former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Michael Mullen and former Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats. Economic changes in large countries and aging populations worldwide are expected to increase global interest rates, which could limit funding for U.S. policy priorities such as defense and foreign affairs.
O’Brien added that state officials have previously urged federal action on reducing the national debt. In a letter addressed to President Donald Trump and Congress, 90 state elected officials—including Governor Braun, Comptroller Nieshalla, and Treasurer Daniel Elliott—called for efforts to address what they described as a growing crisis.
“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 will now move forward for consideration by the full House. Additional information about HR 28 can be found at iga.in.gov.
Speaker Todd Huston leads the Indiana House of Representatives with an emphasis on financial stewardship and community priorities. He advocates for educational opportunities and public safety measures while drawing on his background in local governance and academic training. According to the official website, he maintains a commitment to policies that foster opportunity and prosperity in Indiana: https://www.indianahouserepublicans.com/members/leadership/todd-huston/?back=members
Huston contributed to civic leadership through service on education boards and community commissions in Indiana: https://www.indianahouserepublicans.com/members/leadership/todd-huston/?back=members
He expanded Indiana’s Choice Scholarship program, earning recognition for school choice advocacy: https://www.indianahouserepublicans.com/members/leadership/todd-huston/?back=members
Huston championed measures for tax relief and school choice in Indiana: https://www.indianahouserepublicans.com/members/leadership/todd-huston/?back=members
He resides in Fishers, Indiana with his wife Denise and their two adult children: https://www.indianahouserepublicans.com/members/leadership/todd-huston/?back=members
Huston has served as state representative since his first election in 2012: https://www.indianahouserepublicans.com/members/leadership/todd-huston/?back=members
He earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Indiana University: https://www.indianahouserepublicans.com/members/leadership/todd-huston/?back=members
