This week’s episode of “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan,” hosted by Margaret Brennan features:
Secretary of State Marco Rubio Steve Witkoff, President Trump’s envoy to the Middle East Sen. Lindsey Graham, Republican of South Carolina Rep. Debbie Dingell, Democrat of Michigan Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, a DemocratClick here to access full transcripts from 2025 of “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan.”
MARGARET BRENNAN: I’m Margaret Brennan in Washington.
On Face the Nation this week: Amid economic challenges domestically, President Trump turns his focus overseas. Vladimir Putin of Russia reacts to a U.S. cease-fire proposal in Ukraine. Additionally, the U.S. initiates military operations in Yemen.
U.S. airstrikes targeted multiple Iran-backed Houthi militant sites in Yemen on Saturday, a move commanded by President Trump. We will discuss the potential longevity of this military effort and the expected response from Iran with Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Furthermore:
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DONALD TRUMP (President of the United States): I’m sensing some positive feedback from Russia regarding a cease-fire and a potential deal.
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MARGARET BRENNAN: Special Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff has just returned from discussions with Vladimir Putin. Is there hope for peace talks between Russia and Ukraine? We’ll seek his insights.
South Carolina Republican Senator Lindsey Graham will also be joining us.
Lastly, Maryland Democratic Governor Wes Moore will comment on the repercussions of federal payroll cuts, while Michigan Democratic Congresswoman Debbie Dingell will discuss the impacts of Trump’s trade policies on some of America’s closest allies.
Stay tuned for more on Face the Nation.
Good morning, and welcome to Face the Nation.
As we begin, U.S. military personnel are conducting President Trump’s most significant military campaign to date during his second term.
Let’s begin this morning with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, joining us from Miami, Florida.
Mr. Secretary, for the benefit of our viewers, could you explain the significance of the Red Sea region as a vital shipping channel? The Houthis in Yemen have been disrupting this passage for an extended period. President Trump referenced these issues when announcing the strikes. What is the expected duration of this military campaign, and will it include ground forces?
MARCO RUBIO (U.S. Secretary of State): Initially, this area is crucial for shipping. Over the past year and a half, the Houthis have attacked 174 Naval vessels belonging to the United States and conducted 145 assaults on commercial shipping.
We essentially face a group resembling pirates equipped with advanced weaponry, negatively influencing one of the globe’s most vital shipping routes. This situation is untenable. We cannot allow them to dictate which vessels can traverse this route.
Answering your question, the operations will persist until the Houthis can no longer threaten shipping in that area.
MARGARET BRENNAN: What does U.S. intelligence indicate now? While American strikes have been ongoing, the Houthis haven’t ceased their actions.
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: Correct.
MARGARET BRENNAN: So, what makes the current situation different? Are we operating with enhanced intelligence that will increase effectiveness?
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: Previous strikes were retaliatory in nature. When they launched a missile, we countered by targeting their launcher, and so on. This effort is not just a statement; it’s a robust initiative to prevent them from controlling shipping. This will not continue. We, along with the global community, will not accept their ability to dictate maritime passage.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Indeed.
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: This is ultimately about safeguarding global shipping interests, and it will continue until that’s accomplished. This approach wasn’t adopted during the Biden administration.
Under Biden, responses were purely reactive. An attack was met with a counterstrike without addressing the underlying control issue. We will not permit such restraints on global shipping anymore.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Are ground operations a possibility?
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: Military decisions remain to be made, but I have not heard of any plans for ground assaults. I can confirm that, as of last night, several principal individuals who participated in the missile strikes are no longer active, and some facilities have been dismantled. This will persist.
To put it plainly, we’ve confirmed that these militants have targeted U.S. Navy vessels 174 times. Without a doubt, we will not let them continue to target U.S. Navy forces under President Trump.
MARGARET BRENNAN: The president also mentioned Iran. Given the Iranian support for the Houthis, how does this fit into the broader picture, especially considering U.S. intelligence has suggested that Israel may strike Iran’s nuclear infrastructure? President Trump has extended a negotiation offer to Iran.
Has Iran responded? Can we interpret this airstrike in Yemen as a warning to Tehran?
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: The strike in Yemen primarily addresses the capacity of the Houthis to threaten global shipping and to attack the U.S. Navy, evidenced by their 174 attacks on U.S. vessels and 145 on international shipping. This operation is about that core issue.
Nevertheless, we cannot ignore Iran’s role, as they’ve provided the Houthis with vital support such as intelligence and arms. The Houthis wouldn’t be able to execute these attacks without Iranian backing.
This serves as a message to Iran: if support for the Houthis continues, they will also be held accountable for the attacks they facilitate.
MARGARET BRENNAN: They’ve also garnered support from Russia, which you have addressed through sanctions.
Regarding tariffs, you recently visited Canada. Considering that China ranks as Canada’s second-largest export partner and Mexico’s third, isn’t there a risk that China will ultimately gain from the U.S. tariff strategies, as the costs become prohibitive for dealing with the U.S.?
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: Actually, China and Canada are presently in their own mini-trade conflict. After Canada imposed tariffs on China, the latter retaliated with their own tariffs.
Understanding the situation is essential: President Trump rightfully believes the global trade balance has been skewed for decades. A lot of this disproportion arose during the Cold War as we endeavored to foster prosperity among our allies.
However, this must evolve. The European Union, for instance, has an economy rivaling ours and enjoys a trade surplus with us. Why is that the case?
What the president advocates for is twofold. First, we must preserve critical sectors such as aluminum, steel, semiconductors, and automotive manufacturing, which he rightly believes should remain domestically sourced. Safeguarding these industries means creating economic incentives for production to occur within the U.S.
Secondarily, we are prepared to impose tariffs equal to those set by other nations on us. This is a global guideline; it doesn’t specifically target Canada, Mexico, or the EU. The goal is fairness. From this foundation, we can potentially negotiate bilateral agreements that benefit both sides. The current situation is simply not equitable.
What’s unacceptable is the anger from other countries regarding our efforts.
MARGARET BRENNAN: So, this strategy primarily serves as a means to negotiate, without aiming for free trade agreements or just focusing on North America?
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: No, this isn’t merely about leverage.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Is it purely renegotiation?
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: It revolves around fairness—resetting the baseline of equity. After achieving that, we can work towards creating favorable agreements, recognizing that both sides possess products that the other needs. Trade is most productive when it’s fair.
We must strive for free trade concepts that also maintain fairness across the board. Currently, the balance isn’t equitable, and that can’t continue.
MARGARET BRENNAN: The inconsistency of policy announcements has led to growing concerns in the market, as evidenced by last week’s performance.
It appears you’ve described a strategy aiming for negotiations regarding bilateral arrangements, but you also claimed this plan is grounded in national security.
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: Correct.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Yet, comments from the president about imposing 200 percent tariffs on champagne suggest a more emotional response than a security one.
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: That’s a form of retaliation, reflecting the nature of trade negotiations. If they escalate their tariffs, we will respond in kind.
MARGARET BRENNAN: In retaliation.
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: Yes, indeed. Does that not seem petty? What’s the difference?
The core point is clear: I recognize why these nations are upset—everything was working in their favor before. The status quo benefits them, while we seek a new status quo that will be advantageous for America and a fair deal for all involved.
However, we cannot allow the current state to persist where we have stripped the U.S. of its manufacturing capabilities. Many essential products can no longer be produced domestically, which puts our safety and job security at risk. This is why the Rust Belt emerged, resulting in thousands of jobs lost as industries relocated abroad. That cycle cannot continue.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Indeed.
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: President Trump has been vocal about this issue since long before his political career began.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Absolutely.
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: This transformation is underway now.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Let’s move onto Russia.
You mentioned that Envoy Witkoff’s meeting with Vladimir Putin would clarify whether we are moving towards a ceasefire or if this is merely a stalling tactic. After speaking with Sergey Lavrov, Russia’s foreign minister, do you sense this is just a tactic?
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: I found the meeting to be quite promising. As I’ve noted previously, negotiations will not unfold in the public eye. However, I believe there may be news to share soon, though I can’t make promises. Our exchange was encouraging.
While challenges exist, navigating through this multifaceted conflict is complicated—it’s a longstanding war spanning a vast military front filled with complexities. No one claims this is easy.
However, here’s our game plan: in the first phase, we need to stop the violence before we can transition to phase two—bringing all parties to the negotiating table to consider a lasting resolution that meets everyone’s needs.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Right.
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: The president’s goal is a ceasefire, and that remains our priority.
If we succeed, albeit with significant effort, the next step will be to secure a lasting agreement. This will be difficult and will demand sacrifices from all parties, but the war must not continue.
The president is committed to working towards that end.
MARGARET BRENNAN: We’ll be discussing this further in the program with Envoy Witkoff.
I want to touch on a recent decision to revoke a student visa from a Columbia University individual. The Wall Street Journal Editorial Board mentioned that “The administration needs to ensure it’s targeting actual sponsors of terrorism, not simply deporting those who express controversial viewpoints.”
Can you share any evidence of this student providing material support to terrorism linked to Hamas, or was this solely based on their political perspective?
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: It’s not just this individual; more revocations are underway. We are vetting visa applications rigorously now; if someone applies stating they intend to engage in pro-Hamas activities, that contradicts U.S. foreign policy interests.
It’s straightforward. If you had disclosed this purpose from the get-go, your visa would have been denied. You’re here now, and this behavior is unacceptable. Thus, you must go.
MARGARET BRENNAN: But is there any substantiated proof of terrorism links, or does it merely hinge on their opinion?
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: Certainly, if you examine recent news, instances of campus takeovers and vandalism have been rampant. It’s widely covered.
MARGARET BRENNAN: We reported on those events extensively.
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: They have disrupted higher education institutions and caused serious damage. This individual was a spokesperson who was involved in those protests.
MARGARET BRENNAN: So, you feel the justification for the visa revocation is based on their actions linked to pro-Hamas events?
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: Correct; they played an active role in vandalizing property and inciting disruption.
We don’t want such individuals in this country, nor should they have been permitted entry initially. If we had known their intent was to promote radical agendas, they wouldn’t have received a visa.
Hence, they will be removed.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Are only pro-Palestinian advocates at risk of having their visas revoked, or is this policy applicable to all ideologies?
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: We aim to eliminate any terrorist affiliates, including members from groups like Tren de Aragua.
They’re terrorists, thus designated by the president. Our commitment remains to ensure that no terrorists enter the U.S.
We are proactive in that regard.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Yes.
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: We will not tolerate individuals in the U.S. who jeopardize our national security or public safety.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Certainly, Secretary Rubio. I wish we had more time to discuss these important topics, but we must conclude for today.
SECRETARY MARCO RUBIO: Thank you.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Stay tuned! Face the Nation returns shortly.
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MARGARET BRENNAN: Now, we welcome President Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, joining us from Miami Beach.
Welcome back to Face the Nation, Ambassador.
STEVE WITKOFF (U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East): Thank you, Margaret. I appreciate the opportunity.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Secretary Rubio just addressed efforts toward achieving a ceasefire. You met face-to-face with Vladimir Putin. How do you evaluate whether he genuinely seeks peace or is merely delaying?
STEVE WITKOFF: My observations align with the Secretary’s. We made considerable progress during our meeting, which lasted approximately three hours. We discussed numerous specifics, and we’ve seen significant strides between Ukraine and Russia since the beginning of this administration.
MARGARET BRENNAN: You mentioned on another program that you anticipate President Trump and President Putin will speak this week. Will this be a decision-making conversation or simply for future planning?
STEVE WITKOFF: They have established a rapport from President Trump’s first term and have already engaged in discussions following my visit with Putin. I believe this forthcoming conversation will be productive.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Will this discussion lead to decisions about the 30-day ceasefire that Ukraine and the U.S. have agreed upon, while Russia has not made clear its position?
STEVE WITKOFF: President Trump certainly takes the lead in these matters, as does President Putin for Russia. Their dialogue is a positive indication that both sides are inclined to pursue a long-term, sustainable peace.
MARGARET BRENNAN: France’s president recently asserted that, in his view, Russia is not genuinely seeking peace but is instead escalating tensions. Putin appeared in military attire, alluding to resolving underlying issues regarding the war. Was his private stance as divergent from his public statements?
STEVE WITKOFF: I’m unaware of the specifics of President Macron’s remarks. It’s disheartening when people make assumptions without firsthand experience. I don’t intend to comment on his claims regardless, but I’ve observed positive body language and a constructive approach during lengthy discussions.
There exists a challenging situation across a 2,000-kilometer border, involving combatants from both nations. It’s a convoluted ceasefire conversation altogether, yet we all are unified in intent to approach discussions towards a resolution.
MARGARET BRENNAN: You previously referenced Gaza. What specific plans do you have for the potential relocation of the two million Palestinians in that region? Are negotiations underway with Egypt or Jordan regarding resettling?
STEVE WITKOFF: Our exploration into possible relocation options is ongoing. We aim to enhance the lives of Gazans while ensuring the safety and security of Israeli citizens.
We had meaningful discussions with leaders from several Arab nations at the recent Arab summit. Unfortunately, Hamas’s subsequent reaction was not constructive.
Our proposal was structured to facilitate a final resolution to the conflict, which hinged on the demilitarization of Hamas—essential according to Israel. Yet, Hamas dismissed our offer, which I believe reflects poorly on them.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Understood.
STEVE WITKOFF: I hope they reconsider, as their current path holds negative ramifications for them.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Thank you for your time, Ambassador Witkoff. We will return with more Face the Nation.
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We’ll be back shortly.
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MARGARET BRENNAN: Stay tuned, as we have much more from Face the Nation ahead.
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MARGARET BRENNAN: We now turn to the chairman of the Budget Committee, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, joining us from Clemson, South Carolina.
Welcome back.
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM (R-SC): Thank you for having me.
MARGARET BRENNAN: With the government shutdown narrowly avoided, I expected our conversation to center on domestic policies; however, President Trump has pivoted to international matters this past week with considerable developments.
Looking back at our last conversation, you advocated for President Trump to strike Iran, emphasizing there’s a minimal chance that diplomacy could hinder their nuclear ambitions. Since then, Trump has offered negotiation options. Are you moderating your stance?
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM: I’m open to negotiations, provided we achieve a desirable result. Iran must not obtain a nuclear weapon. I believe there’s an extremely slim chance the ayatollah will ever abandon his nuclear aspirations. He seeks nuclear capabilities to decimate Israel and eliminate its population. He embodies a fanatical ideology intending to purify Islam and drive us from the region.
Yes, I view him as a dangerous ideologue, but let’s engage him. If he’s sincere, he should cease enrichment. Numerous nations operate nuclear power without enriching uranium. There’s no need for 60 percent enrichment unless you’re making weapons. He has enough at that level to produce multiple bombs. Thus, we will finance his nuclear energy program on the condition he halts enrichment altogether. If he complies, then I will concede I was mistaken.
MARGARET BRENNAN: That’s an extensive list of requirements. Thus far, there hasn’t been any indication of compliance.
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM: Exactly; a refusal to bomb can hinge upon compliance to cease enrichment.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Indeed.
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM: Enrichment is key to weapon creation, but not needed for energy production. It’s rather straightforward.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Certainly.
We witnessed increased Russian assaults in Ukraine recently. You have been a proponent of supporting Ukraine’s efforts.
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM: Absolutely.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Secretary Rubio and Ambassador Witkoff have articulated their views.
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM: Yes.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Do you believe Putin is attempting to postpone matters? Is he attempting to exploit President Trump’s intentions?
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM: Uncertain at this moment. However, I advise extreme caution when trying to manipulate President Trump. He took a strong stance in advancing Ukraine’s interests, which garnered results. Should Putin genuinely desire peace, he must accept the ceasefire based on the same conditions agreed upon by Ukraine. He shouldn’t intermingle ceasefire negotiations with peace talks.
I recommend the Trump administration poses a simple question to Putin: Will you accept the ceasefire terms or not? Should he refuse, it’s time to apply substantial pressure on him.
I have pending legislation that would significantly cripple the Russian economy, and I’m ready to move forward if necessary. We’re discussing peace, which is a notable shift from prior discussions. Nonetheless, we should remember that Putin is a predator. His actions over three decades are the best indicators of his ongoing predatory behavior.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Do you have any insights on…
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM: Those refusing to accept the ceasefire will provide clear insights into their intent.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Regarding President Trump’s willingness to endorse the legislation for further sanctions on Russia, do you have faith that he will act decisively?
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM: It’s likely he’ll evaluate the circumstances before deciding how to react to Witkoff’s discussions. I respect Witkoff and am grateful for his work.
I anticipate Trump’s forthcoming conversation with Putin—the necessary discussions must occur with the architect of the existing crisis, Putin. He continues to view Ukraine and neighboring nations as prey.
I hope President Trump can persuade Putin toward constructive dialogue, pressuring him towards a ceasefire and forging a resolution benefiting both nations. We can only discover possibilities after trying. Trump stands as the sole individual capable of achieving this. Should Putin be attempting to deceive Trump, there would be consequences.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Do you believe that Vladimir Putin benefits from the U.S.’s recent attempts to dismantle various advocates for free press outlets like Radio Free Europe and Voice of America, as seen in the recent executive order to diminish them?
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM: Absolutely. I question the relevance of these platforms in today’s context. However, I recognize their immense value during the Cold War; they offered significant information to the oppressed. This support is vital if we wish to uplift freedom.
MARGARET BRENNAN: You’ve been a proponent of soft power.
Let’s pivot to domestic matters.
The president issued further executive orders this week targeting notable law firms like Paul Weiss. These orders restrict the firm’s business activities, even despite a federal judge previously ruling similar measures unconstitutional. President Trump revoked clearances from attorneys at Covington and Burling due to their representation of former special counsel Jack Smith.
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM: Yes, I’m supportive. I see Jack Smith’s endeavors to politically target Trump as a concern. The initial allegations regarding collusion with Russia were fabricated. The Steele dossier was established on lies and accusations from dubious sources that claimed they never intended for those claims to be used in this manner. I perceive Smith’s prosecution of Trump regarding January 6 as a politically motivated initiative. Thus, pursuing lawful actions against those engaged in undermining Trump is appropriate.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Is this lawful from a legal standpoint?
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM: Yes, I believe it is.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Would this be advantageous for U.S. legal systems, considering this might seem like government power being wielded against private organizations simply for their client choices?
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM: Yes, indeed.
MARGARET BRENNAN: This conveys that the government seeks to penalize private entities based on their legal involvement.
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM: Correct; I think those firms leveraged their positions to engage in actions against Trump.
MARGARET BRENNAN: These attorneys are executing their professional roles; this sounds like an effort to punish them.
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM: Yes, as these law firms were forwarding legal concepts aimed at achieving political outcomes rather than just legal ones.
MARGARET BRENNAN: One might debate the ethics of attaching legal accountability to a lawyer’s representation choices.
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM: I understand that perspective. Nevertheless, my view aligns with the idea that the inquiries conducted were aimed not to seek justice but to hamper Trump’s campaign. This was orchestrated, and Biden’s only regret is that they didn’t execute sooner. Anyone with connecting involvement should certainly face repercussions.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Senator, as a Judiciary Committee member with oversight jurisdiction, your perspective is valuable, but we must conclude for now.
We will right back.
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MARGARET BRENNAN: We now welcome Michigan Democratic Congresswoman Debbie Dingell.
Great to have you here, and happy early St. Patrick’s Day.
REPRESENTATIVE DEBBIE DINGELL (D-MI): Thank you, and top of the morning to you.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Let’s address the tariffs and their ramifications—especially pertinent given your roots in Michigan’s manufacturing sector.
Data suggests Michigan has seen a drop of over 220,000 manufacturing positions over the last three decades. Vice President Harris emphasized while in Michigan that Trump’s tariff approach is about revitalizing manufacturing. Is this resonating in your community?
REPRESENTATIVE DEBBIE DINGELL: I possess a unique perspective on tariffs. I’m not wholly anti-tariff, given my political history; I believed Trump would win in 2016, and it was predominantly related to trade, particularly NAFTA, which drastically undercut U.S. jobs in favor of outsourcing.
Trump and I shared efforts to renegotiate trade agreements, leading to the USMCA.
However, the current manner of implementing tariffs feels haphazard. The automotive industry resembles a ping-pong ball amidst these trade actions; I believe these tariffs should be strategically implemented, particularly against China, without being applied indiscriminately.
The domestic auto manufacturers are caught in a tough position, as their integrated production chains are adversely affected by abrupt tariffs.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Following outreach from automakers, the April 2nd implementation of tariffs got postponed. How long do you predict it will take to establish the necessary production plants and reshore manufacturing, as Trump suggests?
REPRESENTATIVE DEBBIE DINGELL: If everything goes smoothly—though with unpredictability surrounding such scenarios—it might take two to three years to reestablish these operations. Our suppliers face serious constraints; we must also address renegotiating the USMCA, which is long overdue.
MARGARET BRENNAN: You advocate for treating Canada and Mexico as distinct partners rather than a collective whole, as Secretary Rubio suggests.
REPRESENTATIVE DEBBIE DINGELL: Absolutely; Canada wouldn’t allow Chinese firms to establish plants for North American markets, nor should we.
Currently, regarding the aluminum and steel tariffs, 60 percent of aluminum consumed domestically is sourced from Canada. Implementing a 25 percent tariff could severely undercut the profit margins for automakers, making survival difficult.
MARGARET BRENNAN: S&P Global forecasted a potential reduction of North American automotive production by 20,000 units daily due to these tariffs.
REPRESENTATIVE DEBBIE DINGELL: Absolutely, certainty is critical for manufacturers. They shouldn’t be acting like a ping-pong ball in a trade war.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Have you had discussions with the Commerce Secretary or Trade Representative? Is dialogue occurring?
REPRESENTATIVE DEBBIE DINGELL: I’ve spoken with Bob Lighthizer, former trade advisor, but not the commerce secretary.
MARGARET BRENNAN: You previously worked closely with Trump and asserted he would win, acknowledging Democrats’ trade shortcomings.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Now, transitioning to domestic matters, we almost encountered a government shutdown last week. Democrats in the Senate ultimately sided with Republicans on a short-term funding extension. Senator Murphy commented that risking a shutdown could have been worth it. Do you share that sentiment?
REPRESENTATIVE DEBBIE DINGELL: In the House, we were quite unified, with few exceptions. Many thought the Senate should push harder regarding funding.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Senate Leader Chuck Schumer suggested Democratic success stemmed from some flexibility during the vote while Republicans maintained strict unity.
REPRESENTATIVE DEBBIE DINGELL: Schumer sent mixed signals, and labor interests, especially from AFGE, were disillusioned and concerned about the repercussions of a potential shutdown.
People are upset and seeking clarity, especially those directly affected, and we’ve got to focus on unity over reconciliation. Protecting health care, Medicaid, Social Security, and Medicare must remain a priority.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Do you believe Leader Jeffries can sustain that unity in the House?
REPRESENTATIVE DEBBIE DINGELL: He demonstrated competency in last week’s negotiations. It’s telling when attending town halls; I’m hearing echoes more characteristic of Republicans. The sentiments expressed show people are discontent.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Are attendees expressing dissatisfaction or anger about the current direction?
REPRESENTATIVE DEBBIE DINGELL: Citizens need to see our commitment to their issues, particularly those concerning vulnerable communities. For instance, at a recent appointment, I encountered a mother seeking care for her wheelchair-bound child; these issues are present and highly emotive.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Thank you, Congresswoman. Unfortunately, our time has run out.
We’ll return shortly.
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MARGARET BRENNAN: We are now joined by Maryland’s Democratic Governor Wes Moore, joining us from Annapolis.
Welcome back to Face the Nation.
GOVERNOR WES MOORE (D-MD): Thank you! Glad to be back.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Your state hosts the Port of Baltimore—one of the nation’s largest. Given Trump’s announcements regarding tariffs, especially a planned 25 percent tax on goods from Canada and Mexico, when do you anticipate seeing these effects on shipping and your state’s economy?
GOVERNOR WES MOORE: The fallout from these poorly thought-out tariffs is already being felt. Tariffs should be applied as a strategic tool, not an ideology. This administration’s erratic decisions are causing significant repercussions for both the Port of Baltimore and key industries, particularly agriculture.
Erratic policies yield real effects on business operations, especially small businesses, which could jeopardize our national competitiveness and security. People are concerned about this unpredictability and indecisiveness.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Maryland is among those states challenging Trump’s decision to terminate 1,300 Education Department positions. How do you decide which issues warrant litigation, and is litigation the only tool Democrats will employ in such situations?
GOVERNOR WES MOORE: No, litigation isn’t our sole instrument. The executive actions taken by this administration largely fall into categories of ineffectiveness, performativity, or illegality—those illegal actions warrant legal action to hold the administration accountable for surpassing their authority.
In recent weeks, I initiated measures favoring law enforcement and emergency responders, counter to federal cuts that threaten these vital services.
MARGARET BRENNAN: President Trump recently indicated that the FBI headquarters would no longer relocate to Maryland—calling your state a liberal area. Originally, this move was projected to yield 7,500 jobs. Have you reached out to the White House seeking clarity over this decision?
GOVERNOR WES MOORE: Ironically, I learned of his announcement through the media, reflecting the diminished partnership this administration seeks with our governors. This undermines not just Maryland’s interests but national security as it places political debates above proper governance and oversight.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Have you attempted to communicate with the president or his team regarding this decision?
GOVERNOR WES MOORE: Yes, attempts have been made, but communication has been lacking, exemplifying how disconnected this administration appears in terms of collaboration.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Do you believe the announcement?
GOVERNOR WES MOORE: I believe that the president operates under the notion that he wields that authority. However, prescribed duties surrounding such actions are typically within Congress’s purview regarding federal allocations—as the public’s representatives, we are accountable for their choices.
MARGARET BRENNAN: In a recent address, you emphasized federal workers, acknowledging their dignity amidst the political battles. You also brought attention to your party’s internal struggles, humorously referencing the age of party leaders and the need for rejuvenation. Do you think age is a challenge your party must address, or is it more about vision, and is a transformation underway?
GOVERNOR WES MOORE: It’s crucial to reaffirm our commitment to standing for the American people while articulating a clear vision.
Consider the discussions surrounding recent funding resolutions—the potential fallout from a federal shutdown would have harmed Maryland severely. However, our faction struggled to present alternatives. Lacking a constructive framework frustrates the public, as they’re not witnessing a concrete plan or fighters in their corner.
MARGARET BRENNAN: It’s noted that various factions offered alternative views in Congress, those viewpoints simply weren’t embraced. Is leadership within your party absent?
GOVERNOR WES MOORE: Ultimately, the absence of distinction reaffirms the problem. If voters don’t recognize alternatives or advocacy from our party, it breeds discontent, leading to disappointment in political dynamics.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Thank you for your insights, Governor Moore.
GOVERNOR WES MOORE: Thank you.
MARGARET BRENNAN: That concludes today’s program. Thank you for tuning in.
Until next week, I am Margaret Brennan, and you’ve been watching FACE THE NATION.
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