Which president's economic measures helped lead to the first balanced budget since 1969?

• A. John F. Kennedy
• B. Ronald Reagan
• C. Bill Clinton
• D. George H.W. Bush

Answer: (C)

Bill Clinton's presidency is notable for achieving the first balanced federal budget since 1969, largely due to a combination of fiscal policies and economic conditions that encouraged growth. During his administration in the 1990s, Clinton implemented a mix of tax increases and spending cuts designed to reduce the federal deficit. His administration focused on a fiscally conservative approach that emphasized budget discipline and economic reform.

Additionally, the period saw significant economic growth, characterized by low unemployment, increased productivity, and a tech boom that enhanced revenue without raising taxes further. This created a surplus in the federal budget, leading to the ability to balance it for the first time in decades. Clinton's focus on eliminating the deficit and maintaining fiscal responsibility aligns with the economic context of his presidency, making him the president associated with this significant milestone in U.S. fiscal policy.