Interview with Rep. Dan Crenshaw on 'Face the Nation', November 2, 2025

MARGARET BRENNAN: We now welcome Congressman Dan Crenshaw, Texas Republican, joining us from Humble, Texas. Thank you for being here, Congressman.

REP. DAN CRENSHAW: I appreciate the invitation, Margaret.

MARGARET BRENNAN: With Congress members primarily working remotely, it's been seven weeks since the House last cast a vote on September 19. Do you think Speaker Johnson should reconvene the House members to attempt resolving the funding deadlock?

REP. CRENSHAW: The decision rests with the Speaker. Gathering members from both parties in Washington won't necessarily break the stalemate. We’ve already passed a straightforward temporary funding measure, though Democrats argue that Republicans are avoiding negotiations. That short-term measure we passed signals our readiness to engage in budget discussions. It’s a Senate issue now, as they need to make a move to reopen the government.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Senator Warner mentioned ongoing talks and hoped for resolution this week. From your perspective, is there any progress on your side of the Capitol?

REP. CRENSHAW: No, there’s no indication of us reconvening soon. Our obstacle isn’t within the House since we have done our part. Democrats in the Senate need to find a way to open the government.

MARGARET BRENNAN: In your constituency, food assistance could be impacted for 350,000 families due to this impasse. Has there been any communication from state or federal levels about potential relief efforts?

REP. CRENSHAW: Administration has pointed to an emergency fund as a temporary fix, but it’s insufficient against the monthly $9 billion SNAP expenses. The simplest solution is just approving our clean funding measure. I visited a food bank lately that’s preparing for increased demand. States and individuals can only do so much, the real fix is reopening the government.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Switching topics, as a member of the Intelligence Committee, what insights can you share about the US efforts in Venezuela? Is there evidence of success in pressuring Maduro’s regime?

REP. CRENSHAW: Lacking frequent briefings hasn't helped, but historically, pressure can be effective against dictators like Maduro who respond to demonstrations of strength. The situation in Venezuela, propped up by foreign powers, remains tense. Our President appears committed to addressing these challenges strategically, particularly regarding drug operations emanating from the country.

MARGARET BRENNAN: On the topic of US actions, would you support possible military strikes in Venezuela?

REP. CRENSHAW: The notion of actual land strikes warrants deeper discussion. The current measures appear legally sound and focused on drug trafficking intelligence. Concerning invasive actions like an invasion, that's hypothetically premature and not currently on the table.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Addressing antisemitism, Senator Cruz has voiced concerns. Do you resonate with his stance on this issue within the conservative sphere?

REP. CRENSHAW: Senator Cruz is spot on. I've criticized Tucker Carlson, notably for offering platforms to extremism. Such associations shouldn't be mistaken for cancel culture when dissociating from harmful ideologies is a moral obligation.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Thank you for joining us today, Congressman. We appreciate your insights. We'll pause here.