On Sunday, July 12, 2026, former White House Chief of Staff and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel appeared on CBS's "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" to discuss a range of topics including his work with the late Senator Lindsey Graham, Middle East peace proposals, and national service initiatives.

Emanuel recalled bipartisan efforts during the presidential transition period, highlighting a meeting with Senator John McCain, Lindsey Graham, the president-elect, and himself where they agreed to advance a national service bill. This legislation, completed in spring 2009, doubled the size of AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps.

He also discussed the challenging negotiations to close Guantanamo Bay detention camp, noting that Senator Graham insisted on military courts to secure the necessary 15 votes.

On Middle East peace, Emanuel proposed moving beyond the traditional two-state solution to a "23-state solution," which would involve all 21 Arab League nations recognizing Israel contingent upon agreements on Israeli security and Palestinian sovereignty. He referenced statements from the Syrian head of state acknowledging Iran as a problem and expressing willingness to establish a security agreement with Israel.

Emanuel emphasized his willingness to facilitate dialogue, stating, "I'll pay for the phone call charges, pick up the phone, and come to a security agreement where your northern part, Jordan is secure on the east, Egypt is secure on the south, Syria you would actually have a security agreement that breaks out."

The interview provided insight into Emanuel's perspectives on bipartisan cooperation, regional security, and service to the nation.

Sources