If you have been hearing the word "stagflation" pop up in the news or on social media lately, you are not alone. It sounds like a made-up word that does not make any sense, but it is a very real (and very tricky) economic problem. And with recent political and economic shifts, many experts are warning that the U.S. might be inching toward another bout of stagflation.

The results of the presidential election this month indicated that reducing inflation and improving the cost of living was the dominant factor that motivated the majority of voters to elect Donald Trump. The economic impact of the next president's policies is uncertain. We may be headed for a stronger stock market due to lower taxes and pro-business environment. It could also mean higher inflation and consumer prices. What could actually happen and how can we protect ourselves?

With the Presidential election just a few days away, inflation continues to be front and center on the mind of many voters. The persistently high cost of living has impacted everything from groceries, gas, housing, and healthcare. Understandably, many people are wondering: What caused this inflation and who's responsible?

In January of this year, the United States Treasury reached its $31.4 trillion debt limit. Congress has yet to authorize a debt limit increase. Why not and why is this a crisis?