US federal deficit surpasses $1tn for the fourth year: does it matter to you?

The end of the US fiscal year is approaching and with it some hard truths: in August, the federal budget deficit increased by $191bn, bringing the annual deficit over the $1tn mark for the fourth straight year. But it's not all bad news – the total is down 6% from $1.23tn in 2011 to $1.16tn today. One reason for the improvement: income tax receipts are up as the economy improves slowly. A 13-digit number can be difficult to make sense of. It's certainly more than any of us will have in a lifetime, and balancing our own budgets is challenge enough. What do you think we can do to dramatically cut the country's overspending? Is it even possible? Is the deficit an issue for you and your family? Will it be a factor in how you vote this year? Use this thread to discuss.