Today, however, two troubling trends are moving in opposite directions as the population is in decline, while the national debt continues to grow. A shrinking population will affect nearly every aspect of national life, from economic growth and national security to retirement and community stability. Much of the national debt represents promises made today that future taxpayers must finance. The combination of population decline, and mounting debt creates a dangerous cycle. Slower population growth reduces economic growth that makes it more difficult to service debt.