Appearing on Face the Nation on October 4, 2026, Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona discussed Democratic prospects in the upcoming midterm elections, rising living costs, and controversies surrounding the Department of Defense. Speaking from Charleston, South Carolina, Kelly argued that voters are frustrated with Washington and struggling with high prices, which he attributes to administration policies including tariffs and the conflict in Iran. Kelly criticized recent financial announcements from President Trump, characterizing proposed payments as attempts to buy votes while noting that Republican tax cuts have disproportionately benefited the wealthy at the expense of social programs. Outlining the Democratic alternative, Kelly pointed to proposed legislation aimed at raising taxes on individuals earning over one million dollars while providing tax relief for middle-class families earning up to $160,000. He also highlighted competitive congressional races across states like Kansas, Iowa, Alaska, Maine, Ohio, and South Carolina, expressing optimism about capturing seats in both the House and Senate. Turning to national security matters, Kelly sharply criticized Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over recent military leadership dismissals and planned cuts to generals and admirals. He claimed that the removals target women and minority officers, which he argued damages military readiness and makes the country less safe. Furthermore, Kelly condemned the administration’s military strategy in Iran, asserting that the campaign has depleted munition supplies without a strategic plan while driving up costs for American consumers.
Source: cbsnews.com
