May 13-16, 2025
Welcome to the Fiscal Balance Game! In this activity, you will take on the role of an economic leader making critical decisions about taxation, spending, and debt management while trying to maintain public approval to get re-elected.
As the economic leader, you will navigate through four key decision phases each round (representing one year):
You'll need to monitor and manage these key economic indicators:
Your goal is to survive as many election cycles as possible while maintaining a healthy economy. You must achieve >50% approval rating to win re-election.
Economy shows steady growth as new administration takes office.
The national debt requires an interest payment of $500B. How would you like to fund this payment?
Determine the government spending level and funding sources.
Absolute amount: $500B
Set the tax rate and structure to generate government revenue.
Higher rates on higher incomes. More equitable but may reduce growth incentives.
Same rate for all incomes. Simpler but may increase inequality.
The election is approaching. Your economic policies will be judged by the voters.
You need at least 50% approval to win re-election.
The nation awaits the results...
Congratulations! You have been re-elected for another term. The people have confidence in your economic leadership.
Final Vote: 58%
Unfortunately, you have lost the election. The voters were not satisfied with the economic situation.
Final Vote: 42%
Your name will appear on the leaderboard if you make it to the top 5.
| Year | Spending | Tax Rate | Debt Funding | GDP Growth | Approval |
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No data yet