That means the cost of these programs is on pace to leap from 8.7 percent of GDP to 19 percent by 2050. But to manage that, we'd have to raise taxes by $11,651 per household (adjusted for inflation and rising incomes) or eliminate every other government program.
A responsible federal budget would start preparing for this coming storm while there's still time to tame it. But the bills our lawmakers passed are decidedly irresponsible.
The president should veto this budget. Then he and Congress can get serious about crafting one that holds down taxes and spending -- and prepares for the future.