Interview with Rep. Michael McCaul on 'Face the Nation' – May 11, 2025

Discussion with Ed O'Keefe

ED O'KEEFE: Our next guest is Congressman Michael McCaul from Texas. As a prominent figure on the House Foreign Affairs and Homeland Security Committees, he joins us from Austin.

Cease-fire Efforts in Ukraine

ED O'KEEFE: Starting off with the situation in Ukraine, a proposed cease-fire lasting 30 days was pushed by the U.S., Europe, and Ukraine to begin on Monday. President Putin has dismissed this, seeking unconditional discussions in Turkey instead. What is the likelihood of progress?

REP. MICHAEL MCCAUL: First, a quick note to wish all mothers, and especially my wife Linda, a Happy Mother's Day. Addressing your question, it's a complex issue. Despite the call for a cease-fire, Putin attacked Ukraine on Palm Sunday with no signs of compromise. It’s important for peace talks to proceed only if Putin genuinely agrees to the cease-fire terms. A settlement that resembles appeasement, like Chamberlain’s era, is simply not an option.

Potential Sanctions Against Russia

ED O'KEEFE: President Biden hinted at additional sanctions should Russia refuse the cease-fire. With Senator Lindsey Graham rallying significant Senate support for a new sanctions bill, and your involvement in the House version, what are the chances of it reaching a vote?

REP. MCCAUL: The ball is in Putin's court. Should he disregard the cease-fire, sanctions are inevitable, coming from both Congress and the Executive branch.

Military Aid and Legislative Actions

ED O'KEEFE: While additional military support for Ukraine was previously secured through your efforts, House Speaker Johnson currently has no plans for another aid package vote. What actions are necessary to secure a vote?

REP. MCCAUL: Our past success in passing the aid package was vital to prevent a Russian takeover of Ukraine. With presidential authority available for supply increases, the obstruction rests with Putin’s unwillingness to negotiate sincerely.

Middle East Diplomatic Efforts

ED O'KEEFE: As President Biden heads to the Middle East, reports indicate a shift away from demanding Saudi recognition of Israel as part of a nuclear agreement. Is this shift appropriate given the stakes?

REP. MCCAUL: While details remain sparse, the economic ties with Gulf nations are crucial to counter Chinese influence. Normalization with Israel is the ultimate goal, though challenges persist with ongoing conflicts, especially involving Iran’s actions.

Domestic Security Concerns

ED O'KEEFE: Shifting focus to home, the arrest of Newark's mayor by ICE has sparked threats against three Democratic Congress members over alleged misconduct. Should ICE be making such arrests?

REP. MCCAUL: Arrests of Congress members should only occur if they are involved in illegal activities. Peaceful oversight of detention centers is standard, but interference in lawful enforcement crosses a line.

Involvement of Governor David Beasley

ED O'KEEFE: Governor David Beasley is rumored to be leading a new initiative. Can you confirm his role?

REP. MCCAUL: Though not yet official, Beasley's track record with the Arab world suggests he is a trusted candidate for humanitarian efforts in Gaza.

Legal Debates on Immigration

ED O'KEEFE: White House advisor Stephen Miller is contemplating suspending habeas corpus for undocumented immigrants, a measure historically taken during wartime. What’s your take?

REP. MCCAUL: It’s a severe measure seen previously under Lincoln. While constitutional rights apply to all within the U.S., the current migration crisis at the Texas border raises significant legal and safety considerations.

ED O'KEEFE: With border crossing decreases, labeling it as an invasion affects the legal context. Thank you, Congressman McCaul, for joining us this morning.