Face The

Read full episode transcripts of “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan” from 2026

Matthew Garcia June 22, 2026

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Comprehensive Transcripts from “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan” Now Available

Read full episode transcripts of Face – For over a decade, the “Face the Nation” program has provided detailed transcripts of its broadcasts, offering viewers and researchers a valuable resource to revisit discussions on pressing national and international issues. The latest collection includes episodes from 2008 through 2025, with additional materials accessible via the CBS News website. This archive ensures that the conversations featuring prominent political figures, industry leaders, and thought leaders remain preserved for future reference.

The 2026 season continues this tradition, with a wide array of guests contributing their insights on topics ranging from foreign policy to economic strategy. Each episode is meticulously documented, allowing audiences to engage with the content at their convenience. For those interested in accessing earlier broadcasts, the CBS Footage Requests team is available to provide assistance and coordinate access to historical materials.

June 21: A Diverse Panel on Global Affairs

The June 21 episode featured a range of experts and public figures. U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz provided perspectives on international diplomacy, while Republican Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and Democratic Representative Jason Crow of Colorado offered insights into domestic and global policy challenges. Anthony Salvanto, director of CBS News elections and surveys, contributed to the discussion about voter trends and public sentiment.

Featured Experts

The panel included Amos Hochstein, a former White House adviser specializing in global infrastructure and energy security, and Kevin Book, managing director of ClearView Energy Partners. Their expertise added depth to the conversation, addressing critical issues such as climate resilience and energy independence. The episode also highlighted the ongoing efforts to strengthen international alliances and address emerging threats.

June 14: Defense Perspectives

On June 14, the focus was on defense strategy and national security. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth discussed current military operations and strategic priorities, while Senator Mark Warner, Democrat of Virginia, and Senator Mark Kelly, Democrat of Arizona, shared views on defense spending and technological advancements. Gary Cohn, former National Economic Council director and current IBM vice chairman, provided analysis on the economic implications of defense policies.

Additional Guests

The conversation also included notable figures such as former White House National Economic Council director Gary Cohn, who offered insights into the intersection of economic and defense planning. This episode underscored the importance of integrating military and economic strategies to address global challenges effectively.

June 7: A Multifaceted Discussion

The June 7 episode brought together a mix of political leaders and industry experts. Rep. Ro Khanna, Democrat of California, and Rep. Jim Himes, Democrat of Connecticut, debated key legislative priorities, while Rep. Don Bacon, Republican of Nebraska, shared his views on domestic policy. Chris Krebs, a CBS News cybersecurity contributor, and Ben Buchanan, former Biden adviser and now a professor at Johns Hopkins, discussed cybersecurity threats and their impact on national security.

Featured Analysts

Contributing to the discourse were Rye Barcott, founder of With Honor and a Marine veteran, and other experts who emphasized the role of technology and veteran leadership in shaping modern policy. The episode reflected the dynamic nature of contemporary governance, with diverse voices addressing complex issues.

May 31: Insights from Ukraine and the U.S.

On May 31, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy took the stage to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its implications for global security. The discussion also included Senator Chris Murphy, Democrat of Connecticut, and former Vice President Mike Pence, who shared their perspectives on U.S. foreign policy. Cindy McCain, executive director of the U.N. World Food Programme, added her voice to the conversation about humanitarian efforts worldwide.

Special Guests

The episode featured a panel that included Zelenskyy, who provided firsthand accounts of Ukraine’s resilience, alongside other notable figures. Cindy McCain’s insights highlighted the intersection of politics and humanitarian aid, while the presence of former officials underscored the program’s commitment to balanced and informed dialogue.

May 24: Economic and Health Policy

The May 24 episode delved into economic and health-related policies. Kevin Hassett, director of the White House National Economic Council, and Senator Chris Van Hollen, Democrat of Maryland, shared their views on economic strategies. Reps. Josh Gottheimer, Democrat of Maine, and Mike Lawler, Republican of New York, debated key legislative issues. Dr. Deborah Birx, former White House coronavirus response coordinator, and retired military officers Lt. Col. William Swenson and Master Sgt. Matthew Williams, both Medal of Honor recipients, contributed to the discussion on public health and military legacy.

Key Contributors

Additional voices came from Dr. Birx, who outlined the challenges and successes of pandemic management, and the retired military officers, whose experiences provided a unique lens on national service. The episode emphasized the interconnectedness of health and economic policies, reflecting the multifaceted approach to governance.

May 17: Trade and Energy Diplomacy

May 17’s episode centered on trade and energy diplomacy. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer discussed international trade agreements and their impact on the economy, while Ambassador Alexander Yui, representing Taiwan in the U.S., provided insights into cross-strait relations. Anthony Salvanto, CBS News director of elections and surveys, joined the conversation to analyze voter reactions to these policies. Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick, Republican of Pennsylvania, and Tom Suozzi, Democrat of New York, highlighted the role of congressional representation in shaping trade and energy strategies.

Historical Context

The episode also featured former Defense Secretary Robert Gates, who offered a retrospective analysis of defense policy. This mix of current and past leaders illustrated the program’s commitment to providing both contemporary and historical context to its discussions.