Senator Bill Cassidy discussed several issues during an interview on "Face the Nation" on September 20, 2026. He addressed the repayment by President Trump's son of money linked to a Russian billionaire, concerns about inflation from proposed direct payments to Americans, and the need to reform Social Security to help reduce the national debt.
Key Facts
President Trump’s son repaid $250,000 to a Russian billionaire connected to the Kremlin after reports about the billionaire paying for part of his wedding.
Senator Cassidy said repaying the money helps but the situation created a bad appearance.
The U.S. national debt is about $40 trillion.
President Trump announced a $5,000 payment to Americans if Republicans win midterm elections; Senator Cassidy said this would increase inflation.
Borrowing more money can raise costs for mortgages, car loans, and credit cards, making life harder for many families.
Senator Cassidy supports fixing Social Security soon, as it covers 20% of the national debt and faces insolvency in about six years.
He emphasized that delaying Social Security reform risks the trust fund running out.
Senator Cassidy is the chairman of the Senate Health Committee and discussed other topics related to health and vaccines during the interview.
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Diesel prices in the United States have increased sharply, rising by 42 cents in one week. This rise is causing concern for the Republican Party just before the upcoming midterm elections. The increase is partly linked to tensions involving the U.S. and Iran.
Key Facts
Diesel fuel prices in the U.S. rose by 42 cents in one week.
The rise in diesel prices is affecting the economic mood in the country.
This increase comes about 45 days before the midterm elections.
The cause of the price rise is linked to the ongoing U.S. involvement in a conflict with Iran.
Republicans are facing challenges due to higher energy costs.
President Donald Trump has responded to the situation, though details are not provided.
Rising diesel costs can impact transportation and goods prices, affecting the economy.
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Rep. María Elvira Salazar, a Republican from Florida, discussed her views on President Donald Trump's communication style and immigration policies during a TV interview. She supported the president's accessibility but raised concerns about his immigration enforcement, noting that many detained people had no criminal records.
Key Facts
Rep. María Elvira Salazar spoke with Margaret Brennan on "Face the Nation" on September 20, 2026.
She described President Trump as accessible and willing to talk to many media outlets, though he recently blocked some journalists from the White House.
Salazar expressed that President Trump has a unique style in handling the press, contrasting it with President Biden’s approach.
She acknowledged that social media gives journalists various ways to cover the president despite restrictions.
Salazar released an ad criticizing Trump’s immigration enforcement for detaining many people without criminal records.
She had a respectful conversation with President Trump about the Hispanic vote and urged him to protect the GOP’s support among Hispanic Americans.
Salazar highlighted that President Trump won 55% of the Hispanic vote in the 2024 election, which she sees as crucial for future GOP success.
She emphasized her background as a daughter of political refugees and her commitment to American values shared by the GOP and Hispanic community.
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Illinois Governor JB Pritzker urged the U.S. Congress to pass federal rules for artificial intelligence (AI) to keep it safe. He said AI is as dangerous as nuclear weapons and should be regulated nationwide, not just by individual states. President Donald Trump disagrees and wants to promote AI growth with less regulation.
Key Facts
Governor JB Pritzker called AI “dangerous on the level of nuclear weapons.”
He wants Congress to create federal laws to regulate AI, arguing states cannot handle it alone.
Illinois passed a law requiring AI companies to do annual safety audits and report problems.
President Trump said AI fears are a “hoax” and announced an “AI Force” to speed up AI development.
Pritzker disagrees with Trump’s approach and worries about AI running without controls.
Pritzker does not support banning superintelligence, saying that AI is already widespread globally.
The issue of AI regulation is becoming part of the political debate ahead of the midterm elections.
Pritzker also talked about economic issues, supporting higher minimum wage and helping working families.
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House Majority Leader Steve Scalise said he does not know why President Donald Trump banned reporters from MS Now, CNN, and Politico from the White House. Scalise defended President Trump's openness with the press and supported the administration’s efforts on economic and immigration issues amid political challenges before the midterm elections.
Key Facts
President Trump banned reporters from MS Now, CNN, and Politico from the White House starting Friday.
Reporters from these outlets were denied entry and had their White House passes revoked.
Trump said the ban was because these outlets “constantly write or report fiction and lies.”
The White House Correspondents Association called the action a “ban on the free press.”
Scalise said he believes President Trump has been very open with the press at public events like bill signings.
Scalise defended efforts to lower gas prices and control inflation, criticizing policies in “blue states” that raise costs.
Florida Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar, usually an ally, criticized Trump’s immigration crackdown as hurting Hispanic voters.
Scalise disagreed with Salazar’s ad, claiming the U.S. now has the “most secure border” and noted recent GOP gains with Hispanic voters.
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Senator Bill Cassidy, a Republican from Louisiana, criticized President Donald Trump’s plan to give every American adult $5,000 if Republicans keep control of Congress, saying the idea would cause inflation. Cassidy warned that borrowing money for these payments could raise borrowing costs like mortgage and car loan rates, making it harder for Americans to afford things.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump proposed giving $5,000 checks to every adult U.S. citizen if Republicans hold Congress after the midterm elections.
Senator Bill Cassidy called this proposal "absolutely inflationary," meaning it would likely increase prices and reduce money’s value.
Cassidy said borrowing government money for the payments could raise interest rates on mortgages, car loans, and credit cards.
Cassidy argued that raising the national debt is harmful and that reducing it would better help the economy in the long term.
House Speaker Mike Johnson did not guarantee that the $5,000 payments will happen, despite Trump’s pledge.
Cassidy is one of the few Republicans publicly opposing this part of Trump’s campaign plan.
Cassidy has a tense relationship with President Trump and is leaving the Senate in January after losing his reelection bid.
The plan faces questions about how it would be paid for and if Congress would approve it.
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Maryland Governor Wes Moore criticized President Trump for banning reporters from CNN, Politico, and MS NOW from covering the White House. Moore said the President is ignoring constitutional rules about press freedom by restricting these news organizations.
Key Facts
Governor Wes Moore spoke about the reporter bans on CNN’s show "State of the Union."
President Trump banned reporters from CNN, Politico, and MS NOW from White House coverage.
Moore said the President acts as if the Constitution is just a suggestion, not a law.
The ban affects journalists’ ability to report on White House activities.
Moore’s comments highlight concerns about freedom of the press under President Trump.
The interview was conducted by CNN’s Dana Bash.
The issue reflects tension between the White House and certain media outlets.
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President Donald Trump announced that a planned large arch in Washington, DC will also serve as a military complex to store drones, snipers, and ammunition for national security. The arch, originally designed as a monument for 250 years of U.S. independence, has faced legal challenges and public criticism over its size and location.
Key Facts
The arch will store drones, snipers, and large amounts of sniper ammunition.
President Trump said the facility will be unique worldwide and serve national security needs.
The monument was first proposed as a triumphal arch to celebrate 250 years of U.S. independence.
The arch is planned to be 76 meters (250 feet) tall, which is taller than most buildings in DC.
Some Vietnam War veterans filed a lawsuit, saying the arch would block important views between Arlington National Cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial.
The US Commission of Fine Arts approved an arch design with golden statues, similar to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
The Federal Aviation Administration said the arch won’t interfere with nearby Reagan National Airport but needs a warning light on top.
This project is part of several controversial Trump construction projects in Washington, including a new ballroom at the White House with an underground bunker.
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President Donald Trump said he will convert his proposed "Triumphal Arch" in Washington, D.C., into a military facility. He claims the U.S. military asked him to use the arch for drones, snipers, and ammunition storage to support national security. The project is facing legal challenges from veterans and preservation groups.
Key Facts
President Trump plans to build a 250-foot "Triumphal Arch" near Arlington Memorial Bridge in Washington, D.C.
The arch will serve as a military complex with facilities for drones, snipers, and ammunition storage.
Trump said the project is at the request of the U.S. military for national security purposes.
The arch would be the first of its kind in Washington, D.C., which currently has no triumphal arch.
Veterans and historic preservation groups have sued to stop construction, citing view obstruction and legal concerns.
The administration admitted the arch may have negative effects on the local environment and views but says the location is critical.
Critics argue the project lacks proper congressional approval.
This military use claim follows a similar statement about a new White House ballroom being used as a military complex.
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President Donald Trump said he plans to build a large arch between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. He described this arch as a "top grade military complex" that could hold drones, snipers, and store ammunition.
Key Facts
The arch would be located between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C.
President Trump says the arch would serve as a military complex with space for drones and snipers.
The arch would also include storage for ammunition.
Trump has described other projects, like the White House ballroom, as having military or security purposes.
The National Park Service supports the arch project, despite concerns about its impact on the view of important landmarks.
The Pentagon said it has no official information about the arch beyond the president's statements.
Trump links his city and White House improvement projects to national security reasons.
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President Donald Trump talked about the situation with Iran and asked when he might take strong action against the country. He said he is thinking carefully about the next steps and that major actions could happen soon.
Key Facts
President Trump spoke about potential military action against Iran.
He questioned the timing for taking strong measures, including the possibility of attacking Iran.
A Fox News reporter said the president is in a "deciding mode."
The president indicated that important developments might happen soon.
The comments were made during an interview reported on Sunday.
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James Ashby, a close associate of Pauline Hanson and national director of the One Nation party, benefits from a company linked to the party that built a $56,000 shed on his Queensland property. He also uses a vehicle and a private plane gifted to One Nation by business figures to support campaign activities.
Key Facts
James Ashby is Pauline Hanson’s right-hand man and the national director of One Nation.
A company linked to One Nation, Small Batch Brewing Pty Ltd, built a $56,000 shed on Ashby’s property in Queensland.
Small Batch Brewing is co-owned by Ashby, Hanson, and the party’s national treasurer but currently does not trade or hold licenses to produce alcohol.
Ashby drives a new Ford Ranger gifted to One Nation by Hancock Agriculture’s CEO, Adam Giles, to help with campaigning.
Ashby regularly uses a private $2 million plane owned by One Nation, gifted by Gina Rinehart’s company, and serves as its main pilot.
The plane is kept near Ashby’s home and is used for party travel, not personal trips.
Ashby denies plans to run for election despite speculation and government moves toward establishing a second One Nation office close to his home.
His property development includes approval for a house and a pool, and he often appears on live TV broadcasts from there.
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Adults with severe mental illness die 15 to 20 years earlier than others, mainly due to preventable diseases like cancer and heart problems. They are much more likely to die from conditions such as liver disease, respiratory illness, and suicide compared to the general population.
Key Facts
Adults with serious mental health issues are about 5 times more likely to die before age 75 than others.
They are 6.3 times more likely to die from liver disease and 6 times from respiratory diseases.
Risk of death from cardiovascular disease is 3.8 times higher, and from cancer 2.3 times higher.
Suicide risk is 14.6 times greater in this group.
Over half of deaths (56.5%) are caused by cancer, heart disease, liver disease, or lung disease.
Causes include poverty, poor housing, smoking, medication side effects, inactivity, and poor medical care.
"Diagnostic overshadowing" means physical symptoms may be mistaken for mental health issues, leading to missed treatment.
The government is working on new mental health services, including 100 new community centers, to improve care.
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The article discusses the importance of protecting Americans' rights to free speech, association, and political challenge, as guaranteed by the First Amendment. It notes that these rights are currently facing strong tests, including threats made by President Donald Trump against certain organizations.
Key Facts
The First Amendment protects freedoms such as speech, association, and supporting causes.
People and groups across the U.S. often disagree on politics but agree on protecting these basic freedoms.
President Donald Trump has threatened the Center for American Progress with a $5 billion action.
The article stresses that commitment to the First Amendment should not be controversial.
There is concern about these rights being tested in difficult situations today.
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Nineteen U.S. states have approved laws to keep daylight saving time all year round. The main remaining step is a federal law change that would allow these states to keep their clocks from changing back in the fall.
Key Facts
19 states have passed laws to stay on daylight saving time permanently.
Currently, the time changes twice a year, in spring and fall.
To make permanent daylight saving time official, Congress must change federal law.
Without federal approval, states cannot fully lock in permanent daylight saving time.
Many states and residents want to avoid the twice-yearly clock changes.
Permanent daylight saving time would mean more evening daylight year-round.
The change could have effects on daily routines, energy use, and health.
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Colorado Representative Lauren Boebert denies allegations that she had sexual relationships with her staff, calling the ethics complaint against her a political stunt. The complaint, filed by activist David Wheeler, claims Boebert broke House rules by engaging in such relationships and paying hush money, but Boebert and others involved have rejected these claims.
Key Facts
An ethics complaint was filed against Representative Lauren Boebert alleging sexual relations with three current and former staff members.
The complaint also claims Boebert paid $200,000 in hush money to one staffer.
Boebert denies all allegations, calling them false and politically motivated.
The complaint was submitted by David Wheeler, a journalist and political activist connected to a Democratic Super PAC.
House rules prohibit members from having sexual relationships with employees they supervise.
Boebert’s personal life, including a recent divorce and her son’s legal troubles, has been publicly reported.
Additional claims involve alleged relations with former Representative Matt Gaetz, which both deny.
Wheeler has a history of conflict with Boebert, including a settled lawsuit and previous dismissed complaints.
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A Liberal Democrat council leader, Julian Brazil, criticized the party's national leadership under Sir Ed Davey, saying it is losing relevance and ambition. Sir Ed Davey and party supporters, however, said the party is successful and focused on important issues like the cost of living and health.
Key Facts
Julian Brazil, Devon County Council leader, said the Lib Dems are "sleepwalking into irrelevance."
Brazil questioned Sir Ed Davey’s leadership but said he wishes the leader was better.
A Lib Dem spokesperson said the party is strong and highlighted success in local elections and increased MPs in 2024.
The party reached a record 72 MPs in the 2024 general election but has dropped behind the Greens and Reform UK in recent polls.
Brazil said the Lib Dems are shy about their message and are not connecting with voters enough.
Some Lib Dem MPs privately share concerns about the party’s relevance ahead of their conference.
Sir Ed Davey defended his leadership and said the party is gaining ground in council elections.
Former Lib Dem leader Sir Vince Cable and others praised Sir Ed’s success and leadership record.
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U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz said President Trump has the legal right to ban certain reporters from the White House. Waltz stated that the ban targets journalists he believes are not acting honestly or fairly.
Key Facts
Ambassador Mike Waltz supports President Trump’s decision to bar some reporters from the White House.
Reporters from CNN, Politico, and MS NOW were banned.
The ban is said to be because these reporters are “not behaving” in good faith.
Waltz said the president has the right to limit access to government events.
The reason given is to ensure reporters cover events truthfully and fairly.
This statement was made during a news discussion on Sunday.
The issue involves press access to the White House and how the government controls it.
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This week on "Face the Nation," President Donald Trump will discuss important foreign policy issues while the House of Representatives is on break until after the midterm elections. The show features interviews with Representatives Ro Khanna, Maria Elvira Salazar, and Senator Bill Cassidy.
Key Facts
The episode is from CBS News’ program "Face the Nation."
President Donald Trump will address key foreign policy topics this week.
The House of Representatives is recessed until after the midterm elections.
Rep. Ro Khanna, Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar, and Sen. Bill Cassidy will appear on the show.
The show is hosted by Margaret Brennan.
The episode airs on September 20.
Viewers can watch the show through the CBS News app or online.
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A type of kidney disease called CKDu is spreading in the United States. This disease affects people who do not have the usual risks like high blood pressure or diabetes.
Key Facts
CKDu stands for Chronic Kidney Disease of unknown origin.
People with CKDu do not have common risk factors such as hypertension (high blood pressure) or diabetes.
The cause of this kidney disease is not yet clear.
It is spreading within the US population.
CKDu differs from typical kidney disease in how it develops and who it affects.
More research is needed to identify who is at risk and why the disease is spreading.
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