" If we finally chose as a country to take responsibility for the wars that we believe we must engage in, and rather than borrow money to exercise that authority to go to war, we actually pay for these wars, that would save us over a trillion dollars, because that’s what we have spent in Iraq and Afghanistan – all through borrowed money. "
- Xavier Becerra

In simple terms, Xavier Becerra suggests that if a country decides to pay for its military engagements using its own funds rather than borrowing money from external sources, it can save a significant amount of financial resources. This point is illustrated by the large sums spent in Iraq and Afghanistan, which were financed through debt, indicating substantial long-term economic burdens.

Becerra's statement delves deeper into the broader implications of how countries fund their military activities. By highlighting the choice between borrowing money to finance wars or using domestic funds, he raises questions about national responsibility and fiscal prudence. The deep meaning also touches on the political economy aspect, where taking on war debt can lead to prolonged economic instability and reduced financial flexibility for other essential public expenditures such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. This perspective underscores a need for more thoughtful consideration of the long-term consequences of military interventions.

Xavier Becerra is a former Attorney General of California and currently serves as the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services. Known for his legal expertise and advocacy work, he has been an influential voice in public policy discussions, including issues related to national security and economic stability. His background in law and government positions him well to comment on complex topics like war financing and its broader impacts on society.