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

CBS News released a full transcript of “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan” for Oct. 18, 2026, moderated by Brennan from Washington. The broadcast focuses on midterm campaign momentum, with a Nov. 3 deadline mentioned as just two weeks and two days away. Brennan also examines President Donald Trump’s executive action aimed at easing pressure on Vladimir Putin, which the program says has sparked fury among some Republicans. Guests include CBS elections executive director Anthony Salvanto, Rep. Mike Turner (R-Ohio), Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), and Florida state Rep. Angie Nixon, a Democratic Senate nominee. The transcript references new polling tied to a Texas race and discusses efforts to mobilize voters.