Ex-Trump defense chief on Jan. 6, new book
Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper joined CBS News to discuss the ongoing January 6 hearings and his new book, "A Sacred Oath: Memoirs of a Secretary of Defense During Extraordinary Times."
Mark Esper
Esper: January 6 committee "needs to get to the bottom of the truth"
Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper says the committee "needs to get to the bottom of the truth of what happened on January 6, the events leading up to it, and understand it, so there's a degree of accountability."
5/9: Red and Blue
Biden signs bill to streamline Ukraine aid; Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper discusses Trump and the GOP
Full interview: Esper on Trump, GOP
Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper sat down with CBS News chief Washington correspondent Major Garrett to discuss working in the Trump administration and his new memoir "A Sacred Oath."
Former defense secretary on Trump presidency
Former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper joins "CBS Mornings" to discuss the revelations he makes in his new memoir "A Sacred Oath: Memoirs of a Secretary of Defense During Extraordinary Times." In his book, Esper sheds light on what happened inside the White House while Donald Trump was in office.
Esper says Trump suggested they "just shoot" protesters in 2020
“He says, ‘Can't you just shoot them? Just shoot them in the legs or something.’” That’s what former Sec. of Defense Mark Esper recalls Pres. Trump saying in a June 2020 meeting regarding rioters in Washington, DC. https://cbsn.ws/3wg4aZB
Mark Esper and Mark Milley's 4 No's
In order to deal with what Mark Esper calls “crazy” ideas from the Trump White House, Esper says he came up with the “Four No’s & discussed it with CJCS General Mark Milley… the four things we had to prevent from happening between then and the election.” https://cbsn.ws/3KWDra3
Mark Esper on Ukraine
“I think [the Biden administration] had a shaky start…I don’t understand the reluctance to provide the Ukrainians with MiGs … but since then, it’s picked up,” says former Defense Secretary Mark Esper, who adds he is glad Congress is unified about helping Ukraine https://cbsn.ws/3vSMdBp
Mark Esper details his time in President Trump's Cabinet
In his new memoir, "A Sacred Oath," Esper writes that he had to press President Trump to send aid to Ukraine, and also walked the president back from ideas such as shooting protesters and missile strikes in Mexico.
Trump's response to Mark Esper's 60 Minutes interview
When asked for comment on this week's interview with Mark Esper, Mr. Trump sent 60 Minutes' Norah O'Donnell a written letter attacking Esper and disputing some of the claims he had made.
Trump and the 25th Amendment
Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper tells 60 Minutes that a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff researched the 25th Amendment after President Donald Trump berated them.
Mark Esper: The 60 Minutes Interview
In his new memoir, “A Sacred Oath,” Esper writes that he had to press President Trump to send aid to Ukraine, and also walked the president back from ideas such as shooting protesters and missile strikes in Mexico.
Esper on Trump’s nickname for him
Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper addresses President Trump’s nickname for him, "Yesper."
Esper on prospect of a second term for Trump
In an interview with 60 Minutes, Mr. Trump's Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper labeled the former President as a threat to American democracy.
Mark Esper on what's at stake if Donald Trump is re-elected president
Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper tells 60 Minutes that he thinks President Donald Trump is a threat to American democracy.
Esper: Trump wanted to launch missiles into Mexico
Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper said President Trump suggested launching missiles into Mexico to go after the drug cartels. Watch more of Norah O'Donnell's interview with Esper on Sunday on "60 Minutes."
Esper: Trump suggested shooting missiles into Mexico
“I had to explain to him, ‘We-- we can't do that. It would violate international law,’” Mark Esper tells Norah O’Donnell.
Esper: Trump suggested shooting missiles into Mexico
"I had to explain to him, 'We-- we can't do that. It would violate international law,'" Mark Esper tells Norah O'Donnell.
Trump Defense secretary on "ridiculous" border plan
Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper tells Norah O'Donnell about a tense standoff in the Oval Office about a "ridiculous" plan to send 250,000 troops to the U.S.-Mexico border. Watch the full interview on "60 Minutes" on Sunday.
Esper: Miller wanted "quarter-million troops" for migrant caravan
Former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper tells Norah O'Donnell he killed Miller's plan to deploy troops in response to a caravan that was heading toward the southern border.
CBS Evening News, November 9, 2020
Pfizer's early data shows COVID-19 vaccine is more than 90% effective; Presidential election reveals a deeply divided nation
1/6: CBS Evening News
Secretary of defense insists U.S. will not pull out of Iraq; 3D printed limb helps young musician play the cello.
1/2: CBS Evening News
Tensions rising in the Middle East after embassy attack; 98-year-old swimmer refuses to slow down.
Former defense chief Mark Esper sues Pentagon over memoir redactions
Esper, who wrote about his time as Trump's Secretary of Defense, claims redactions demanded by the Pentagon after an "unusual" delay infringe on his constitutional rights.
7/9: Red and Blue
Dr. Fauci warns some states should pause reopening; Catching up on the 2020 campaign trail
Grand jury refuses to re-indict Letitia James
Federal prosecutors on Thursday presented an indictment of New York Attorney General Letitia James to a grand jury in Norfolk, Virginia.
Supreme Court allows Texas GOP to use new redistricted map for now
Texas approved a new congressional map this summer after Trump urged state GOP lawmakers to craft new House district lines to help Republicans hold onto their majority in the 2026 midterms.
Lawmakers see video of boat strike, say admiral testified there was no kill order
"What I saw in that room was one of the most troubling things I've seen in my time in public service," Democratic Rep. Jim Himes said.
FBI arrests suspect in 2021 D.C. pipe bomb case, identified as Virginia man
Authorities say the FBI has arrested a man suspected of placing pipe bombs outside RNC and DNC headquarters on the eve of the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot.
Trump thinks tariff revenue could replace income taxes. Is that possible?
President Trump suggested Americans won't have to pay personal income taxes "in the not-too-distant future" because of rising U.S. tariffs.
U.S. tightens immigration work permits in latest move to expand crackdown
The Trump administration said it would reduce the period of time that work permits are valid for refugees, asylees and other immigrants granted legal protections in the U.S.
Trump hires new architect for ballroom
The current architect, with whom President Trump has some disagreements, will remain on the White House ballroom team, sources said.
ICE begins surge in Minnesota as Trump pushes for crackdown on Somali immigrants
ICE began enhanced operations in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area this week, as President Trump rails against Somali people in Minnesota.
Appeals court lets Trump admin. keep National Guard deployed in D.C. for now
A U.S. District Court decision to end the deployment of National Guard members to Washington, D.C., is now on hold.
U.S.
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Appeals court lets Trump admin. keep National Guard deployed in D.C. for now
A U.S. District Court decision to end the deployment of National Guard members to Washington, D.C., is now on hold.
4 killed in latest strike on alleged drug boat, Pentagon says
At least 87 people have been killed since the vessel strikes began in early September.
Grand jury refuses to re-indict Letitia James
Federal prosecutors on Thursday presented an indictment of New York Attorney General Letitia James to a grand jury in Norfolk, Virginia.
Supreme Court allows Texas GOP to use new redistricted map for now
Texas approved a new congressional map this summer after Trump urged state GOP lawmakers to craft new House district lines to help Republicans hold onto their majority in the 2026 midterms.
This week on "Sunday Morning" (Dec. 7)
A look at the features for this week's broadcast of the Emmy-winning program, hosted by Jane Pauley.
MoneyWatch
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These U.S. cities have seen the biggest rent increases since 2020
Rents in the 50 largest cities have surged by hundreds of dollars per month over the last five years, a LendingTree analysis found.
Employers have cut 1.1 million jobs this year. Here's why.
Job cuts so far this year are at their highest levels since 2020, new report says.
Trump thinks tariff revenue could replace income taxes. Is that possible?
President Trump suggested Americans won't have to pay personal income taxes "in the not-too-distant future" because of rising U.S. tariffs.
Trump moves to roll back fuel economy standards set under Biden
The Trump administration proposed rules that would weaken fuel economy standards for vehicles set under President Biden in 2024.
CEO of genetics firm says parents have a right to choose unborn child's traits
Kian Sadeghi, the 25-year-old founder and CEO at Nucleus Genomics, tells "CBS Mornings" that parents have every right to select the qualities and traits they desire in their child.
Politics
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Jasmine Crockett called Texas Senate race contenders as she weighs jumping into fray
As intrigue grows over whether Texas Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett plans to announce a U.S. Senate campaign next week, she confirmed to CBS News she's spoken with would-be opponents.
Appeals court lets Trump admin. keep National Guard deployed in D.C. for now
A U.S. District Court decision to end the deployment of National Guard members to Washington, D.C., is now on hold.
Operations against Houthis played into Truman Strike Group accidents, Navy finds
Investigations released by the Navy into accidents involving the Truman Carrier Strike Group recommended ensuring processes are followed even when faced with adversity.
4 killed in latest strike on alleged drug boat, Pentagon says
At least 87 people have been killed since the vessel strikes began in early September.
ICE begins surge in Minnesota as Trump pushes for crackdown on Somali immigrants
ICE began enhanced operations in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area this week, as President Trump rails against Somali people in Minnesota.
HealthWatch
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Could pets be next for weight loss drugs? Here's what to know about a study.
A clinical study into weight loss drugs for pets just launched, with results from the trial expected by next summer.
CDC panel postpones vote on hepatitis B vaccine for newborns
The CDC's vaccine advisory panel meets Thursday and Friday to discuss recommendations for the hepatitis B vaccine and the schedule of childhood shots.
12 ex-FDA leaders criticize claims made by agency's current vaccine chief
The former officials said the FDA's plans to revamp how certain life-saving vaccines are handled would "disadvantage the people the FDA exists to protect, including millions of Americans at high risk from serious infections."
CEO of genetics firm says parents have a right to choose unborn child's traits
Kian Sadeghi, the 25-year-old founder and CEO at Nucleus Genomics, tells "CBS Mornings" that parents have every right to select the qualities and traits they desire in their child.
How to avoid holiday stress
The holiday season can be a wonderful, but also stressful time – filled with unrealistic expectations. A recent poll found 41% of adults anticipate more holiday stress this year. Psychiatrist Dr. Sue Varma has tips to unwind during the holidays.
World
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Operations against Houthis played into Truman Strike Group accidents, Navy finds
Investigations released by the Navy into accidents involving the Truman Carrier Strike Group recommended ensuring processes are followed even when faced with adversity.
4 killed in latest strike on alleged drug boat, Pentagon says
At least 87 people have been killed since the vessel strikes began in early September.
U.K. and Norway sign pact to "hunt Russian submarines" in North Atlantic
The United Kingdom and Norway have signed a pact to create a naval alliance in the North Atlantic, aimed at protecting undersea cables and hunting Russian submarines.
Inside a Ukrainian drone pilot training facility
The facility teaches both civilians and military personnel the skills to fly drones and hit targets.
Lawmakers see video of boat strike, say admiral testified there was no kill order
"What I saw in that room was one of the most troubling things I've seen in my time in public service," Democratic Rep. Jim Himes said.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Lucy Liu talks new movie, "Rosemead"
Lucy Liu talks about starring in and producing the movie "Rosemead," why she says the story resonates universally and reflecting on personal experiences for the film.
Steve Cropper, acclaimed guitarist for Booker T. and the M.G.'s, dies at 84
Steve Cropper co-wrote several classics, including "(Sittin' on) the Dock of the Bay," "Green Onions" and "In the Midnight Hour."
Kaytranada on rise to fame and his new album
Grammy winning DJ and producer Kaytranada has become one of the most influential voices in dance and electronic music, and has collaborated with top artists. He spoke with "CBS Mornings" about his latest album, touring and his journey in music.
Richie Moriarty talks 5th season of "Ghosts"
Actor and comedian Richie Moriarty talks with "CBS Mornings" about the fifth season of the comedy series "Ghosts," what's next for his character and how the cast has bonded.
At home with Architectural Digest
For more than a century, the pages of Architectural Digest magazine have captured not only timeless designs but also the spirit of their subjects' homes. Their distillation of private spaces is featured in a new book, "AD at Home: Architectural Digest." Serena Altschul talks with editor Amy Astley about the magazine's treatments; and with actor Liev Schreiber and designer Marc Jacobs about what it means to open up one's living space to the magazine's photographers.
Technology
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Technology
Politico: Trump admin. looks to robotics
Leaders in the robotics industry say that to strengthen AI, companies also need a plan for robots. The White House appears to be listening. Yasmin Khorram, economic policy reporter for Politico, joins CBS News to discuss her article on the topic.
Google's top search trends in 2025
Google has released its list of the 2025 top search trends. Robert Ferrera, a Google Trends expert, joins CBS News with more.
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.
India revokes order for phone makers to install security app amid uproar
India's government, amid an uproar over privacy, has revoked an order quietly issued to smartphone makers to pre-install a state-run security app.
OpenAI responding to Google's moves: WSJ
OpenAI has declared a "code red" as Google threatens to unseat the AI industry's early leader, according to the Wall Street Journal. Technology journalist Jacob Ward joins CBS News to discuss.
Science
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"Space gum" discovered in asteroid Bennu samples, NASA reveals
Samples collected from the asteroid Bennu are continuing the shed light on the origins of the solar system and how life developed on Earth, scientists say.
CEO of genetics firm says parents have a right to choose unborn child's traits
Kian Sadeghi, the 25-year-old founder and CEO at Nucleus Genomics, tells "CBS Mornings" that parents have every right to select the qualities and traits they desire in their child.
Sick ants invite self-sacrifice to save colony: "Come and kill me"
Ant colonies act as one "super-organism" which works to ensure the survival of all, according to a team of scientists.
Mystery owner of ancient foot found in Africa identified, scientists say
The discovery could cast some doubt on the status of Lucy's species as the direct ancestor of Homo sapiens.
Most dogs have wolf DNA. These breeds have more than others.
Wolf DNA seems to have influenced the size, smelling power and even personality of modern dog breeds, scientists said.
Crime
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Crime
Listen to 911 call from Luigi Mangione arrest
Newly unsealed evidence sheds light on Luigi Mangione's arrest at a Pennsylvania McDonald's. CBS News legal reporter Katrina Kaufman has the details.
New details in Mangione pretrial hearing
Luigi Mangione's pretrial hearing continued on Thursday, one year after UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was killed. CBS News legal reporter Katrina Kaufman has more.
Suspect arrested in D.C. pipe bomb case
A suspect is in custody nearly five years after two pipe bombs were planted in Washington, D.C., the night before the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. Attorney General Pam Bondi said 30-year-old Brian Cole Jr. was arrested in Virginia on Thursday morning. CBS News' Anna Schecter has more.
What we know about 2021 D.C. pipe bomb suspect
Federal authorities on Thursday arrested a suspect in the case of two pipe bombs placed outside the Democratic and Republican National Committee headquarters the night before the Jan. 6th Capitol riot. CBS News senior White House reporter Jennifer Jacobs has the details.
Day 3 of Luigi Mangione pretrial hearing
Luigi Mangione's pretrial hearing continued Thursday in New York. CBS News' Anna Schecter has the details.
Space
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"Space gum" discovered in asteroid Bennu samples, NASA reveals
Samples collected from the asteroid Bennu are continuing the shed light on the origins of the solar system and how life developed on Earth, scientists say.
Air Force approves SpaceX launch pad expansion
The U.S. Air Force has approved SpaceX's plan to redevelop a historic launch pad at Cape Canaveral. CBS News correspondent Mark Strassmann reports.
Geomagnetic storm watch issued after powerful solar flare
Solar flares and other activity can disrupt radio communications, power grids and navigation signals, according to NASA.
Scientists think they've detected lightning on Mars: "Missing piece of the puzzle"
Researchers have documented 55 instances of "mini lightning" over two Martian years by eavesdropping on the whirling wind recorded by NASA's Perseverance rover.
Russia sends a NASA astronaut, 2 cosmonauts, up to the space station
The new space station crew includes American Chris Williams, who holds a Ph.D. in astronomy and is a board-certified medical physicist at Harvard Medical School.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2025
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Robert Redford 1936-2025
A retrospective look at the actor, director, producer, and founder of the Sundance Institute.
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
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Latest CBS News Videos
Luigi Mangione arrest video played in court
On the one-year mark of the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson on a New York City sidewalk, a hearing was held to determine what evidence is admissible in the trial of his accused killer, Luigi Mangione. Alice Gainer reports.
FBI arrests suspect in 2021 D.C. pipe bomb case
A northern Virginia man was arrested and accused of placing two pipe bombs outside the Democratic National Committee and Republican National Committee headquarters on the eve of the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021. Scott MacFarlane has details.
Arctic blast grips U.S. as temperatures plummet
An early season Arctic blast sent shivers through the Midwest and Northeast as temperatures tumbled far below normal. Lana Zak reports and Lonnie Quinn has the forecast.
$1.6 million raised for elderly man still working
For most of his life, Ed Bambas worked toward his American dream. But in 2019, at 82, he found himself doing what most retirees never imagine: going back to work. That was, until a stranger approached him with a question. Tom Hanson has the story.
White House Christmases of past, present
President Trump and first lady Melania Trump lit the national Christmas tree on Thursday. Melania's White House Christmas theme this year is "Home Is Where the Heart Is." White House expert Jennifer Pickens joins CBS News to discuss.