1/2 Trillion vs. 3/4 Trillion. http://www.usdebtclock.org/ ...in national income accounting a fiscal deficit speeds up GDP while a trade deficit slows it down. The US is in a go slow mode to the tune of 1/4 Trillion, meaning an additional 250 million in fiscal deficit is needed to offset the trade deficit. Going to visit my brother in Tenn. will post again Tues.