Complete Transcript of 'Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan,' November 30, 2025

On this edition of 'Face the Nation,' hosted by Nancy Cordes:

I'm reporting from Washington, this is Nancy Cordes.

This week on 'Face the Nation': Following a tragic shooting involving National Guard personnel, President Trump intensifies his immigration restrictions. Meanwhile, efforts for peace in Ukraine are juxtaposed with increasing tensions regarding Venezuela.

A devastating incident in D.C., reportedly at the hands of an Afghan citizen, has left a National Guard soldier dead and another severely injured. This has prompted President Trump to hold the Biden administration accountable, citing inadequate vetting of Afghan refugees.

Presidential Response and Policy Implications

Investigators are still uncovering the reasons behind the attack. However, President Trump has already put a stop to immigration from Afghanistan and similar nations. Stay tuned as we delve into the aftermath of the shooting and the administration's response.

Furthermore, Russia has embarked on a vast offensive against Kyiv using drones and missiles, openly opposing U.S. attempts to foster peace in Ukraine.

Additionally, President Trump issues warnings to commercial airlines advising them to steer clear of Venezuelan airspace, raising questions about potential U.S. military actions.

Expert Insights and Analysis

Joining the discussion, Republican Congressman Mike Turner and Democratic Senator Tim Kaine shed light on these developments. Additionally, we hear from President Trump's lead economic adviser, Kevin Hassett, covering the economic impacts of the season's peak shopping period and addressing the escalating hunger crisis with Claire Babineaux-Fontenot from Feeding America.

On this Sunday morning, even as holiday festivities wrap up, many Americans turn their attention to returning home or diving into holiday shopping. Yet, in Washington, the tragic events involving National Guard members have reignited debates on national security and immigration.

To get us up-to-speed, homeland security correspondent Nicole Sganga provides the latest report.

On-the-Ground Reporting

Shortly before, the attorney general and the homeland security secretary speculated on possible radicalization of Rahmanullah Lakanwal within the U.S., asserting that vetting failures were a catalyst for the assault.

Details emerging from the investigation suggest that the accused lacked strong extremist affiliations but worked within CIA-supported Afghan paramilitary units, which might have contributed to his psychological state. Lakanwal arrived in the U.S. as part of the Operation Allies Welcome program after Kabul's collapse, later gaining asylum.

The chilling attack has led to increased National Guard presence in D.C., tallying nearly 3,000 troops, as federal immigration processes grind to a halt, leaving millions in uncertainty.

Discussion with Former Counterterrorism Official

Samantha Vinograd, a former DHS counterterrorism leader under Biden, offers an assessment of vetting protocols, emphasizing that the tragedy doesn't automatically imply a vetting breakdown but rather points to potential radicalization stateside.

She elaborates on the vetting process, highlighting checks conducted before and after Afghan evacuees' entry into the U.S.

Political Perspective: Rep. Mike Turner's Viewpoint

Engaging with Ohio Congressman Mike Turner, Nancy Cordes explores whether the situation points to flawed vetting or in-country radicalization. Turner underscores the complexities and distractions from the original Afghanistan mission, critiquing the Biden administration's withdrawal strategy.

As Congress investigates, Turner calls attention to the nationwide concern on crime and safety, advocating for a balanced security approach while addressing the administration's handling of the crisis.

Venezuelan Crisis: Military Concerns and Strategy

Turning to international issues, particularly the situation in Venezuela, discussions with Tim Kaine highlight legislative efforts to demand Congressional approval for military action.

As developments unfold, the conversation touches on concerns from recent military maneuvers in the Caribbean, raising ethical questions about wartime conduct and international law.

In response to Trump's pardon plans for figures like former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez, questions arise about the administration's stance on drug trafficking and its broader geopolitical implications.

Economic Insights with Kevin Hassett

Kevin Hassett, detailed how current economic indicators are impacting holiday spending behaviors, suggesting a mix of price adjustments and consumer confidence driven by policy and economic shifts seen in recent reports.

Amidst discussions on inflation, wages, and the controversial Obamacare subsidy expiration, Hassett provides insights into the potential ramifications on American households.

Addressing National Hunger Crisis

Concluding the broadcast, Claire Babineaux-Fontenot of Feeding America discusses the ongoing hunger challenge in the U.S., as millions still reside in food-insecure households.

She outlines the systemic issues contributing to this crisis and the operational demands facing food banks amidst high need, particularly during holiday seasons.

In view of program alterations affecting SNAP benefits, Babineaux-Fontenot calls for strategic and bipartisan action to effectively address and mitigate hunger nationwide.