Social Security
Initially, ChatGPT added Social Security spending to the federal budget. This was an issue, as we’re looking for an operational budget that would technically not include it. Social Security is self-funded, after all, so it would make sense to remove it from the operational budget.
It agreed, telling us that it’s both pragmatic and intellectually honest to treat Social Security separately from the annual federal budget. Doing so:
Reflects its dedicated funding structure
Provides a clearer view of discretionary vs. entitlement obligations
Helps policymakers and the public better target deficit and debt reduction strategies
That said, it’s wise to continue tracking its long-term solvency—but that’s a policy reform issue, not an annual budgeting issue. Adding Social Security took $1.1 trillion off the top of its original federal budget. Now, we were able to add this back to get what is honestly a tremendous budget.