Interview with Congressman Mike Turner on 'Face the Nation' – January 26, 2025
Hosted by CBS News
MARGARET BRENNAN: We now welcome Ohio's Republican Representative, Mike Turner. It’s good to have you here this morning.
REP. MIKE TURNER: Good morning. I'm pleased to join you.
MARGARET BRENNAN: We've got a lot to discuss. Let's start with the recent news regarding President Trump’s decision to remove 15 inspectors general without the required 30-day notice. These positions oversee crucial federal activities for signs of waste and misconduct. Are you troubled that this might hinder internal oversight?
REP. MIKE TURNER: It is actually quite normal for new administrations to make such changes as they reevaluate the current staff and strategic needs of their administration. Some roles get reassessed, and replacements are brought in. It is typical for these roles to turnover during transitions in leadership.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Do you worry these might be filled by individuals chosen for their loyalty over other qualifications?
REP. TURNER: Historically, administrations have selected individuals who, by all appearances, fulfill their roles effectively as watchdogs, regardless of having been chosen by new leadership. We expect this professional standard to continue.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Switching gears slightly, with the CIA’s recent low-confidence conclusion that COVID-19 originated from a lab, what are your thoughts on how this has been managed?
REP. TURNER: Unfortunately, the present administration has often been a barrier to transparency on this issue. While an order was signed to declassify related information, more must be done to illuminate COVID's true origins. Many feel the process has been too gradual.
Implications of TikTok and National Security Concerns
MARGARET BRENNAN: Returning to our topic on China, a significant decision was made regarding TikTok. The Supreme Court upheld a law requiring ByteDance, its parent company, to sell it to a U.S. entity. However, there seems to be reluctance from the Trump administration to enforce this immediately. What is your perspective on this delay?
REP. TURNER: TikTok’s existence as a national security threat is clear due to China’s capacity to exploit it for data access and propaganda. Congress and the Supreme Court have recognized this through legislation. Divestment is paramount to mitigating these risks.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Donald Trump, however, seems to be pursuing some alternative arrangement. Your thoughts?
REP. TURNER: Despite his intentions to negotiate, true relief and protection can only emerge through full compliance with the divestment law, ensuring the elimination of potential data misuse by China.
Consequences of Political Dynamics in Congress
MARGARET BRENNAN: On Capitol Hill, you’ve lost the chair position of the House Intelligence Committee. Can you elaborate on this change and its implications?
REP. TURNER: While I'm concerned about the direction this new leadership wishes to take the committee, my experience emphasizes that bipartisan cooperation is essential for national security. This change shouldn't divert focus from critical national threats.
Security Concerns for Public Figures
MARGARET BRENNAN: Finally, recent security reductions for figures like Mike Pompeo, who face threats from entities like Iran, have raised red flags. What’s your stance on the protection of such individuals?
REP. TURNER: Ensuring the safety of those under threat is non-negotiable, and reevaluating such security decisions should be a priority.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Thank you, Congressman Turner, for joining us this morning.
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