对内：斩杀线

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the alarming financial situation of many Americans, highlighting the concept of the "kill line," which refers to the precarious state where individuals are at risk of financial collapse due to unexpected expenses, exacerbated by rising living costs and stagnant wages [3][4][5]. Group 1: Economic Conditions - Approximately 67% of Americans are classified as "living paycheck to paycheck," with 59% unable to cover unexpected expenses [5][6]. - The Consumer Price Index (CPI) in the U.S. rose by 2.7% year-on-year as of December 2025, while wage growth for middle-income families was only 2.3% and for low-income families just 1.4% [5][6]. - The personal savings rate in the U.S. dropped to 4.0% by September 2025, indicating a significant decline in financial buffers for households [9]. Group 2: Debt and Financial Vulnerability - As of the third quarter of 2025, total household debt in the U.S. reached a record high of $18.59 trillion, with credit card debt exceeding $1.23 trillion [9][10]. - The average credit card debt per person stood at $6,523, with high-interest rates contributing to a cycle of increasing debt reliance among low- and middle-income households [10]. - The rising credit card debt reflects a growing dependency on borrowing to meet daily expenses, particularly in a high-interest environment [10]. Group 3: Social Safety Net and Governance Issues - The U.S. social welfare system exhibits a "welfare cliff," where slight income increases can lead to significant reductions in benefits, worsening the financial situation for low-income families [11][12]. - Government spending priorities have shifted towards military expenditures, with the defense budget projected to reach approximately $1 trillion in 2026, while social welfare programs face cuts [11][12]. - The decline in social mobility and the increasing difficulty for lower-income groups to improve their financial status contribute to the persistence of the "kill line" phenomenon [12].