Full transcript of “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan,” July 26, 2026
Face the Nation Transcript: Diplomatic Efforts Intensify as Iran Conflict Nears Half-Year Mark
Bizeconanalysis.com – Margaret Brennan welcomes viewers to her Washington-based broadcast, offering a comprehensive examination of current events as the United States approaches five months of military engagement with Iran. The program features several distinguished guests discussing the evolving situation, including Republican Senator John Kennedy from Louisiana, Independent Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont, United Nations Ambassador Mike Waltz, and former Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb. Additionally, Anthony Salvanto, CBS News’ executive director of elections and surveys, presents fresh polling data.
Polling Reveals Public Sentiment on Iran Strategy
A newly released CBS News survey indicates that approximately two-thirds of American citizens favor concluding the ongoing conflict immediately, while only one-third support continuing military operations until Tehran provides additional concessions. President Trump’s management of the situation has garnered approval from merely 35 percent of respondents. Furthermore, when asked which political party possesses a superior approach to Iran, 32 percent selected Trump and the Republican Party, compared to 30 percent who chose Democrats.
Oil markets responded to developments last week, with prices climbing to their highest point in over a month. Simultaneously, the Pentagon has submitted a request to Congress for supplementary financial resources as the economic burden of the conflict continues to grow.
Sanders Addresses Funding and Constitutional Concerns
Brennan opens her interview with Senator Bernie Sanders by referencing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s statement to Congress regarding an emergency $67 billion allocation. This funding would assist in compensating military personnel and replenishing ammunition supplies. Despite Sanders’ longstanding opposition to the conflict, Brennan notes his desire to support service members and asks how he envisions assistance without additional appropriations.
Well, Margaret, we need $67 billion to build housing, to make sure that all of our people have health care, that we deal with climate change, that we deal with a middle class, a working class in this country that is struggling. The war in Iran is unconstitutional. It is illegal, should never have been started. We need to sit down, negotiate, end this war as quickly as possible.
When Brennan inquires about Democratic alternatives, Sanders emphasizes that both chambers of Congress have already passed war powers resolutions clarifying the illegality of Trump’s actions. He advocates for immediate negotiations to halt hostilities and stabilize the economy, which has experienced rising fuel costs and inflation across multiple sectors.
The solution should be, A. – and, by the way, both the House and the Senate have voted for war powers resolution that makes it clear what Trump is doing is illegal. But given that we are where we are right now, let’s sit down, let’s negotiate with them, let’s stop the killing, let’s stop the devastation to our economy, which is raising gas prices, prices all across the board. That’s what we have got to do, sit down, negotiate. Let’s end this war.
Brennan confirms Sanders’ position involves cutting losses at the current juncture, to which the senator responds affirmatively.
Looking Ahead: Midterms and Regional Diplomacy
With midterm elections approaching in approximately 100 days, Congress confronts critical legislative priorities including government funding and war financing. Meanwhile, regional sources indicate that diplomatic discussions between Oman and Iran regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz are progressing favorably, though additional negotiations remain necessary.
Brennan also highlights Sanders’ nationwide efforts to support progressive candidates, noting particular attention to Maine’s Senate race. Recent developments saw 600 primary delegates replace Graham Platner with Troy Jackson, a progressive logger who previously maintained alliances with his predecessor before calling for his removal.
The broadcast concludes by previewing additional segments covering measles and cyclosporiasis updates with Dr. Gottlieb, alongside further analysis from Ambassador Waltz regarding potential peace agreements.
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