Nashville Standard

United States Senator Bill Hagerty appeared on NBC News' "Meet the Press" to discuss several key topics, including President Donald Trump’s cabinet nominations and economic strategies. Hagerty, who serves on the Senate Banking and Foreign Relations Committees, addressed issues ranging from FBI leadership to international trade policies.

Hagerty spoke about Kash Patel's nomination for FBI Director, highlighting his belief in Patel's potential to reform the agency. He expressed concerns over past security clearances and criticized previous investigations. "There are serious problems at the FBI, the American public knows it," he stated. Hagerty emphasized that Patel has relevant experience to tackle these issues.

On tariffs, Hagerty supported President Trump's approach toward China, Mexico, and Canada. He argued that tariffs should be used strategically to protect U.S. interests and address illegal immigration. "Access to our economy is a privilege," he noted, advocating for corrective measures against nations not aligning with U.S. priorities.

Regarding developments in the Middle East, Hagerty praised Israel's actions against Hezbollah despite opposition from the Biden Administration. He suggested that these moves have significantly weakened Hezbollah's influence in Lebanon and Syria.

Finally, Hagerty discussed Tulsi Gabbard’s nomination for Director of National Intelligence as part of Trump's effort to diversify his administration by incorporating different political perspectives. "What he’s doing is he is reaching out and broadening the party," Hagerty commented.