On February 3, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order to create a sovereign wealth fund, aiming to make it one of the world's largest.
With the US already $36 trillion in debt, experts question the funding source for the trillions needed.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated they will "monetize the asset side of the U.S. balance sheet" for Americans.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum identified federal lands and natural resources as assets potentially worth $200 trillion.
Current natural resource leasing generated less than $17 billion in 2024, suggesting land sales may be necessary to raise sufficient funds.
Republicans have previously advocated for selling federal lands, with the party platform supporting sales for housing development.
Critics argue that public land sell-offs would harm local economies, access to nature, and democratic values.
Without proper safeguards, the SWF could potentially enrich Trump and allies rather than the American public.
Alternative SWF models exist, such as those in Norway and New Mexico, which provide stable funding for local communities.
A better approach would maintain public ownership while delivering fair compensation to state and local governments.
היה הראשון לענות דיון כללי זה.
