As the U.S. national debt surpasses $36 trillion, concerns over the long-term value of the dollar are driving renewed interest in “sound money”—a system where currency is backed by assets like gold or silver. Supporters argue it promotes fiscal discipline, curbs inflation, and restores trust in the dollar. States like Texas, Utah, and Wyoming have already taken steps by recognizing gold as legal tender or creating gold depositories. Meanwhile, private initiatives are exploring gold-backed digital currencies.

Critics, however, argue that returning to a gold standard would limit economic flexibility and be difficult to implement in today’s global economy. Modern Monetary Theory suggests debt isn’t the problem if governments manage spending wisely. While a full return to sound money may not be practical, hybrid approaches—such as partial asset backing or sound money-inspired financial tools—are gaining traction as a response to rising debt and inflation concerns.