The U.S.’ national deficit surged in February as income declined and expenses rose, resulting in the federal government spending more than double what it collected in the month, according to a release from the Treasury Department. According to the Treasury Department, the federal government collected $271 billion in February, mostly through taxes, social insurance, and retirement payments, but spent $567 billion, a difference of $296 billion that was funded by an increase in the national debt. The gain in February brings the total national debt increase in fiscal year 2024 to $828 billion, whi…