Full transcript of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Oct. 18, 2026

On this “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan” broadcast, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin and Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso join Margaret Brennan.

On this "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" broadcast, moderated by Margaret Brennan: Anthony Salvanto, CBS News executive director of elections and surveys Rep. Mike Turner, Republican of Ohio Florida state Rep. Angie Nixon, Democratic candidate for Senate Sen. Kevin Cramer, Republican of North Dakota Anthony Salvanto, CBS News executive director of elections and surveys, Caitlin Huey Burns, CBS News political correspondent and Ed O'Keefe, CBS News senior White House and political correspondent Click here to browse full transcripts from 2026 of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan." MARGARET BRENNAN: I'm Margaret Brennan in Washington.And this week on Face the Nation: Midterm elections campaigning enters the homestretch, and President Trump's latest move to ease pressure on Vladimir Putin sparks fury among some Republicans.From East to West and far North to Deep South, it's down to the sweet 16 for the 2026 candidates, even for the politician whose name won't actually appear on any ballot this year.(Begin VT)DONALD TRUMP (President of the United States): What an honor.

I love doing this stuff, you know? This is worth the eight hours in a plane.(LAUGHTER)PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP: And don't forget, I got eight hours going back too.(End VT)MARGARET BRENNAN: The president says his quest for a red state romp is working.(Begin VT)PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP: So I think these rallies have changed everything. I