Principles & Priorities: A Federal Budget Simulation Workshop

Presented by in partnership with the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Public and International Affairs & Carnegie Mellon University’s Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy

is an interactive federal budget simulation where YOU take on the role of national decision‑makers. Working in teams, you’ll grapple with real-world fiscal challenges—evaluating spending priorities, considering revenue options, and negotiating the tough trade-offs required to balance the federal budget. Participants receive a menu of real policy options including General Government Spending, National Security and Defense, Health care and Social Security, and Taxes and Revenue.

It’s hands-on. It’s collaborative. It’s fast-paced. And yes—it's fun.

Why Participate?

• Interactive: Discuss, deliberate, and decide while navigating real federal budget constraints.
• Nonpartisan: Focused on evidence, fiscal responsibility, and civic engagement—not policy advocacy.
• Educational: Learn how the federal budget works, what drives the national debt, and why bipartisanship matters.
• Empowering: Gain practical policymaking insights and a clearer understanding of citizens’ role in democracy.

Light refreshments will be provided.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher CMU Heinz College