Full transcript of "Face the Nation" on December 5, 2021
On this "Face the Nation" broadcast, Dr. Vivek Murthy and Governor Ned Lamont sat down with Margaret Brennan
COVID-19
Gottlieb on vaccine availability worldwide
Dr. Scott Gotlieb, the former FDA commissioner, said last week that five of eight countries in the U.S. travel ban had turned down vaccines. He said "we do need to get capacities into these countries so it's not a recurring problem."
Connecticut governor on Omicron spread
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, whose state has detected the Omicron variant, said that he is "concerned" about the spread of Omicron, especially since his state is located between New York and Boston.
WHO COVID technical lead on boosters
Following WHO comments last month that COVID booster rollout is a "scandal," WHO COVID-19 technical lead Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove said Sunday that it is "unjust" that some countries are doing boosters while others struggle to vaccinate their populations.
States brace for impact as Omicron hits
CBS News senior national correspondent Mark Strassmann reports on the ongoing impacts of the coronavirus pandemic in the United States.
Open: This is "Face the Nation," December 5
Today on "Face the Nation," with the world still battling COVID's Delta surge, preparations are now underway to combat a new threat.
Transcript: Maria Van Kerkhove on "Face the Nation"
The following is a transcript of an interview with Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO COVID-19 technical lead, that aired December 5, 2021 on "Face the Nation."
COVID cases on the rise worldwide
CBS News senior foreign correspondent Elizabeth Palmer reports from Seoul, South Korea, on the global impacts of COVID-19
Transcript: Francis deSouza on "Face the Nation"
The following is a transcript of an interview with Illumina CEO Francis deSouza on Sunday, December 5, 2021.
Transcript: Governor Ned Lamont on "Face the Nation"
The following is a transcript of an interview with Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont that aired Sunday, December 5, 2021, on "Face the Nation."
Transcript: Dr. Scott Gottlieb on "Face the Nation"
The following is a transcript of an interview with former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb on Sunday, December 5, 2021.
Transcript: Dr. Vivek Murthy on "Face the Nation"
The following is a transcript of an interview with Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General, that aired on Sunday, December 5, 2021, on "Face the Nation."
Omicron variant detected in at least 11 states
As of Saturday morning, health officials have confirmed cases of the Omicron variant in 11 states from Hawaii to New York. Doctors warn it is likely already more widespread than reported. In the meantime, the CDC warns the Delta variant is still killing roughly 1,000 people every day. CBS News' Tom Hanson has more, and then emergency room physician at Brigham and Women's Hospital, professor at Harvard Medical School and author of "Inside Medicine" at Bulletin.com Dr. Jeremy Faust joins CBSN to discuss the spread of the Omicron variant.
Omicron interrupts holiday planning in the U.K.
COVID-19 variant Omicron is pushing its way into many countries and the U.K. is no exception. CBS News contributor Simon Bates sheds light on what Britain's residents are facing in the weeks before Christmas in this weekend's edition of "London Calling."
Multiple states report Omicron variant cases
The highly contagious Omicron COVID-19 variant, first detected in South Africa, has made its way from coast to coast in the United States this week, with cases reported in at least 11 states. While the number of infections is low, there are a lot of questions about the new variant. Tom Hanson has the latest on the pandemic response.
Biden addresses November jobs report
The U.S. added just 210,000 new jobs in November, a figure well below economists' prediction of 550,000. But in a sign of improvement, the unemployment rate fell to 4.2%. CBS News senior White House correspondent Weijia Jiang joins CBSN's Lana Zak with reaction from the White House.
More cases of Omicron variant detected in U.S.
The Omicron variant has been confirmed in at least nine states across the U.S. Scientists say it appears to be spreading twice as fast as the Delta variant. Elise Preston takes a look.
U.S. economy added only 210,000 jobs in November
The November jobs report fell far short of expectations. Weijia Jiang has reaction from the White House.
COVID cases rise ahead of holiday
Coronavirus infections are rising again in half the country, just as people begin traveling for Thanksgiving. More than 53 million people are expected to hit the road this holiday weekend, creating concerns of large indoor gatherings. Tom Wait has more.
Stricter COVID restrictions following WHO warning
With various countries in Europe seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases, the World Health Organization warns that as many as 500,000 people may die by next spring. Now European countries are turning to stricter restrictions. Imtiaz Tyab has the story.
Omicron coronavirus strain spreads in U.S.
The CEO of BioNTech says the coronavirus vaccine it developed with Pfizer may need to be adapted to be more effective against the Omicron variant, cases of which have been confirmed in at least five U.S. states. Pulmonary specialist Dr. Len Horovitz joins CBSN's Elaine Quijano to discuss the potential for a new vaccine and how people can best protect themselves.
Biden promotes small businesses amid drop in stocks
Despite some concerns about the Omicron variants impact on an already fragile stock market, President Biden said he's not at all worried about the possible fall. Weijia Jiang reports.
U.S. to restrict travel from southern Africa
The U.S. on Monday will join the European Union in imposing strict new travel restrictions on South Africa and several other countries in response to the new Omicron COVID-19 variant. Debora Patta reports.
Scientists working to determine severity of Omicron
With little information to go on at the moment, scientists are assessing just how dangerous the newest COVID-19 variant is. Meanwhile, cases are surging in parts of the U.S. with lagging vaccination rates. Lilia Luciano has more.
Economic analyst on November jobs numbers
The Department of Labor said the economy added only 210,000 jobs last month while the unemployment rate fell to 4.2%. Bankrate senior economic analyst Mark Hamrick joins CBSN's Anne-Marie Greene to discuss the numbers.
Graham Platner suspends Maine Senate campaign after sexual assault allegation
Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner is suspending his campaign against GOP Sen. Susan Collins, after a woman accused him of sexually assaulting her five years ago.
Live
U.S. launches more strikes against Iran after Trump says ceasefire is "over"
The U.S. began a second night of strikes against Iranian targets late Wednesday, following Iranian attacks on commercial oil tankers.
Judge orders release of over $5 million due to E. Jean Carroll in Trump case
The damages were awarded to Carroll, a writer, by a 2023 jury in a civil sexual abuse and defamation case.
How Democrats could pick a new Maine Senate nominee to replace Graham Platner
Maine Democrats are facing a ticking clock to find a new candidate to go up against GOP Sen. Susan Collins this fall, after Graham Platner dropped out of the race following a sexual assault allegation.
NASA chief flew private military jets over D.C. for July 4th despite FAA disapproval
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman flew private military jets over D.C. in a flyover Saturday — with Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche as a passenger — despite safety objections from the FAA.
White House announces "Freedom Fuel" gas station selling $3.47 gasoline
The Freedom Fuel Network is offering gasoline for more than 30 cents a gallon below the national average.
Suspect's roommate in Charlie Kirk killing given immunity for recorded statements
Prosecutors revealed that the roommate of the man accused of assassinating Charlie Kirk was given "use immunity" in exchange for providing recorded video statements to investigators about the case.
Nolan Wells' family seeks answers after missing Mississippi teen found dead
The family of Nolan Wells, who was found dead after a July 4 boat trip to Horn Island, has hired civil rights attorney Ben Crump.
Trump hails "unity" at NATO summit, despite recent tensions
President Trump concluded the NATO summit with a press conference touting the "tremendous love" exhibited by the allies.
U.S.
More U.S.
Second Memphis fatal shooting in 4 days by federal task force, officials say
A member of a federal crime-fighting task force in Memphis shot and killed a man there on Wednesday, the second fatal shooting by a task force member in four days.
What to know about "explosive" diarrhea-causing parasite reported in several states
Michigan is experiencing its largest outbreak of a parasitic infection, called cyclosporiasis, that causes severe diarrhea.
Suspect's roommate in Charlie Kirk killing given immunity for recorded statements
Prosecutors revealed that the roommate of the man accused of assassinating Charlie Kirk was given "use immunity" in exchange for providing recorded video statements to investigators about the case.
Sons of man killed by ICE officer in Houston demand independent probe
Lorenzo Salgado Araujo worked for 35 years to send all three of his American citizen sons to college, his son said. He was shot and killed by an ICE officer on Tuesday.
Parents of football player who died speak out after charges filed against ex-coach
Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced that his office is charging former Bucknell coach Mark Kulbis with felony aggravated hazing.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Judge orders release of over $5 million due to E. Jean Carroll in Trump case
The damages were awarded to Carroll, a writer, by a 2023 jury in a civil sexual abuse and defamation case.
White House announces "Freedom Fuel" gas station selling $3.47 gasoline
The Freedom Fuel Network is offering gasoline for more than 30 cents a gallon below the national average.
Stocks slide, oil surges after Trump says Iran ceasefire is over
Oil prices jumped 6% while U.S. stocks fell as renewed Middle East conflict threatens crude shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
China warns of "security backdoor" in Anthropic AI coding tool
A Chinese industry regulator warned users of a "security backdoor" embedded in versions of U.S. artificial intelligence company Anthropic's coding tool, Claude Code.
Why do airlines make passengers check their carry-on at the gate?
Catching a flight with just a carry-on can make travel feel easy. No need to check a bag and all your belongings stay with you. But quite often, that suddenly changes before boarding.
Politics
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Graham Platner suspends Maine Senate campaign after sexual assault allegation
Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner is suspending his campaign against GOP Sen. Susan Collins, after a woman accused him of sexually assaulting her five years ago.
NASA chief flew private military jets over D.C. for July 4th despite FAA disapproval
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman flew private military jets over D.C. in a flyover Saturday — with Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche as a passenger — despite safety objections from the FAA.
Suspect's roommate in Charlie Kirk killing given immunity for recorded statements
Prosecutors revealed that the roommate of the man accused of assassinating Charlie Kirk was given "use immunity" in exchange for providing recorded video statements to investigators about the case.
U.S. military launches second night of strikes against Iran
The U.S. military launched another round of strikes against Iran late Wednesday night, U.S. Central Command said, in the second night of attacks as diplomacy between the two countries appears to collapse.
Judge orders release of over $5 million due to E. Jean Carroll in Trump case
The damages were awarded to Carroll, a writer, by a 2023 jury in a civil sexual abuse and defamation case.
HealthWatch
More HealthWatch
What to know about "explosive" diarrhea-causing parasite reported in several states
Michigan is experiencing its largest outbreak of a parasitic infection, called cyclosporiasis, that causes severe diarrhea.
What to know about infant botulism
A fourth infant was hospitalized for botulism linked to Nara Organics baby formula, and the FDA is now expanding its investigation. Dr. Céline Gounder has the latest.
Nara Organics infant formula linked to another case of botulism
The FDA is urging parents and caregivers to immediately stop using a Nara Organics-brand formula after several infants contracted botulism.
Switching to a cheaper health plan delayed a man's access to vital medicine
A Florida man thought he had carefully planned for a seamless switch between health plans. It was anything but.
"Very unhealthy" pollution levels recorded in D.C. after July 4th fireworks
A "purple" air quality alert was issued for Washington, D.C., and surrounding areas, on Sunday, meaning pollution reached levels considered "very unhealthy."
World
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U.S. military launches second night of strikes against Iran
The U.S. military launched another round of strikes against Iran late Wednesday night, U.S. Central Command said, in the second night of attacks as diplomacy between the two countries appears to collapse.
Trump says U.S. will grant Ukraine's request to license Patriot defense system
"A little birdie told me this, about the fact that we'll give them the right to make Patriots," President Trump told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Doctor with "lust for murder" convicted in deaths of 15 patients
The doctor allegedly killed 12 women and three men between 2021 and 2024. He allegedly set fire to some of the victims' apartments to cover up the killings.
Telegram used to share rape videos and drugging tips, prosecutors say
The suspects posted videos of their attacks and referred to women as "cars," sedatives as "fuel" and rape as "driving," according to court documents.
Live
U.S. launches more strikes against Iran after Trump says ceasefire is "over"
The U.S. began a second night of strikes against Iranian targets late Wednesday, following Iranian attacks on commercial oil tankers.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Goo Goo Dolls perform "Slide"
The Goo Goo Dolls perform their hit song "Slide" as America rings in its 250th birthday
The War and Treaty performs "Litty"
The War and Treaty performs "Litty" from their new album "The Story of Michael and Tanya" at the historic Woolworth Theatre in Nashville.
2026 Emmy nominations are announced: See the full list
The nominations for the 78th annual Primetime Emmy Awards were announced Wednesday morning in Los Angeles, with the final season of HBO Max's "Hacks" setting a new record for the most nominations in a single year for a comedy series.
Cristo Fernández on kid's book, loving soccer
"Ted Lasso" actor Cristo Fernández shares the inspiration behind his new children's book "Fútbol is Life!" The bilingual book draws on Fernández's childhood experiences growing up in Guadalajara and is "a love letter to the game" of soccer.
Restaurants rebound with "Kitchen Undercover"
Chef Antonia Lofaso helps struggling restaurants get back on track with her new show, "Kitchen Undercover." Lofaso joins "CBS Mornings" to explain how.
Technology
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China warns of "security backdoor" in Anthropic AI coding tool
A Chinese industry regulator warned users of a "security backdoor" embedded in versions of U.S. artificial intelligence company Anthropic's coding tool, Claude Code.
Satellites search for wildfires from space
FireSat satellites, equipped with specialized cameras and imaging software, are helping detect wildfires from space. Muon Space CEO Jonny Dyer explains how the satellites could help firefighting efforts.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Microsoft to cut more than 3,000 jobs from ailing Xbox unit
Microsoft moves to slash costs as the video game industry faces what the tech giant calls the "most severe hardware crisis in its history."
Why U.S. initially restricted Anthropic AI models
The Trump administration has lifted export restrictions on Anthropic's most advanced artificial intelligence models, Fable and Mythos, after weeks of negotiations over national security concerns. CNET Editor-in-Chief David Katzmaier joins to discuss.
Science
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2,000-year-old gold rings and human bones found by archaeologists
Archaeologists have discovered eight human skeletons, bronze and gold jewelry and other artifacts indicating a ceremonial burial of wealthy people.
Telescope spots most distant quasars ever discovered
Quasars — the brightest objects in the universe — are powered by supermassive black holes at the heart of early galaxies.
The American innovation that made millions of others possible
From the lightbulb to the airplane, to medical breakthroughs and the internet age, the past 250 years have been defined by America's intrepid intellect.
New White House UFO panel chair speaks out
The White House appointed former Harvard University astronomer Avi Loeb to lead its new panel on Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena, also known as UAPs and UFOs. Loeb shares his enthusiasm for his new role.
3 futurists predict what America will be like in the centuries ahead
From space to healthcare and artificial intelligence, what could the next 250 years of the United States look like?
Crime
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Crime
Lawyers battle over evidence in Kirk case
In Utah, a judge is weighing whether 23-year-old Tyler Robinson should face trial for the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, and whether a recorded interview with Robinson's former roommate and romantic partner should be made public. Carter Evans reports.
Person of interest in custody after stray bullet hits 5-year-old in Detroit
Kaizer, 5, is expected to make a full recovery after a stray bullet struck him while he rode his bicycle near his west side Detroit home Tuesday evening, his family said.
Parents of football player who died speak out after charges filed against ex-coach
Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced that his office is charging former Bucknell coach Mark Kulbis with felony aggravated hazing.
Suspect in Charlie Kirk death back in court
Tyler Robinson, the suspect in Charlie Kirk's murder, is due back in court today as he faces Day 3 of preliminary hearings. This comes after prosecutors unveiled footage of him on the Utah college campus where Kirk was killed. CBS News' Anna Schecter reports.
Ex-Wisconsin judge fined $5,000, spared prison in ICE obstruction case
A former Wisconsin judge will soon learn her sentence for felony obstruction for helping an immigrant evade federal officers.
Space
More Space
Telescope spots most distant quasars ever discovered
Quasars — the brightest objects in the universe — are powered by supermassive black holes at the heart of early galaxies.
Mission launched to rescue a falling space telescope
Katalyst Space's LINK spacecraft is designed to capture and boost NASA's Swift observatory back to a safe altitude.
NASA astronauts operate on space station's broken robot arm
The orbital surgery on the International Space Station returned the Canadian-built robot arm to full health after its "wrist" joint failed last month.
NASA prepares to launch rescue to save telescope from falling to Earth
The $30 million salvage operation gets underway as soon as this week with the planned launch of a robotic lifesaver.
Astronomers find 2 gigantic planets lighter than cotton candy
The featherweight pair — orbiting a star 1,110 light-years away — are the biggest exoplanets found to have less density than cotton candy.
Latest Galleries
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Celebrations at Obama Presidential Center
The Obama Presidential Center, museum and library opens in Chicago with a star-studded grand opening ceremony and public watch party on Midway Plaisance.
Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Summer music highlights of 2026
Summer is the time to enjoy live music, indoors and out. Scroll through our gallery of some of 2026's leading musical acts, featuring images by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
Graham Platner suspends his campaign
Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner has suspended his campaign following sexual assault allegations. He has denied all claims. The 41-year-old announced his decision in a social media video on Wednesday. Caitlin Huey-Burns reports.
Details: Graham Platner suspends his campaign
Maine Democrat Graham Platner has dropped out of his race for Senate following sexual assault allegations that he continues to deny. The 41-year-old announced his decision in a social media video on Wednesday. Jessi Mitchell anchors this special report.
Masih Alinejad on Khamenei's funeral
New U.S. strikes on Iran come as the Islamic Republic holds the funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. CBS News contributor Masih Alinejad joins with analysis.
Graham Platner suspends U.S. Senate campaign
Maine Democrat announced Wednesday that he's suspending his U.S. Senate campaign after being accused of assault. He continues to maintain his innocence. CBS News' Caitlin Huey-Burns reports.
Three kids fight for change in Michigan
Three brothers from Michigan have run a lemonade stand for the last three summers. After a local Michigan health department said their lemonade stand required a permit, they decided to fight it. Tony Dokoupil has the story.