Podcast
On Balance with Leland Vittert
Leland Vittert asks "why?" about the most pressing matters of the day, with an intellectual, balanced and sometimes irreverent take on the news. "On Balance with Leland Vittert" airs weeknights at 9/8C.
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- Daily News chart
- #167
- Episodes
- 114
- Releases
- Daily
- Typical length
- 41 min
- On air since
- 2026
- Latest episode
- 2 days ago
Episodes
114 episodes, newest first
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40 min
Do Republicans recognize American frustration with the economy? | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert discusses whether Republicans recognize Americans' frustration with the economy just four days before the midterm elections. Kellie Meyer and Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., weigh in.Meanwhile, can Americans still trust election polls after major misses in 2024? Liberty Vittert Capito and Andy Crosby examine the reliability of polling.Later, Democrats promise accountability for President Donald Trump while facing questions about alleged election interference in Alaska. Roma Daravi, Saeed Ibrahim and Meghan Hays discuss the political fallout.Also, Elon Musk argues that saving for retirement could become pointless in an AI-driven future, raising questions about whether billionaires are out of touch with ordinary Americans.Plus, a massive tech sell-off raises fears that the AI investment bubble could be bursting. Former Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez assesses the economic implications.#trump #midterms #elonmusk This episode originally aired Oct. 30, 2026."On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here: https://www.warnotes.com/ #OnBalanceNewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all Americans. More from NewsNation: https://www.newsnationnow.com/Get our app: https://trib.al/TBXgYppFind us on cable: https://trib.al/YDOpGyGHow to watch on TV or streaming: https://trib.al/Vu0Ikij
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41 min
Political dirty tracks are backfiring ahead of midterms | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert discusses political dirty tricks backfiring on candidates in Ohio, Michigan and Alaska ahead of the midterms. Chuck Todd weighs in.
Later, new reporting raises questions about past investigations into Representative Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and allegations surrounding her marriage. Mike Nellis and Shelby Talcott discuss the controversy.
Also, Alphabet suffers a massive stock market loss as concerns mount over AI companies prioritizing profits over safety. Meanwhile, President Trump campaigns in South Carolina as polls show a surprisingly close Senate race. Mick Mulvaney examines the political landscape.
Plus, new reports of alleged Chinese espionage and emerging military threats raise fears of another Cold War, this time centered on AI. Gordon Chang assesses the implications.
"On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here:War Notes | Leland Vittert | Substack #onbalance
This episode originally aired on 10/29/2026.
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42 min
Dems accused of recruiting Dan Sullivan to challenge GOP Senator in Alaska | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert discusses a New York Times report alleging Democratic operatives recruited another candidate named Dan Sullivan to challenge Republican Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) in Alaska. Rod Blagojevich and Michael Isikoff weigh in.
Meanwhile, President Trump and former President Obama trade jabs as the midterm elections approach, raising questions about their focus on the economy. Steve Cortes and Corbin Trent examine the political fallout.
Later, prediction markets favor Democrats in key Senate races, but will the results match expectations? Also, could the midterms also reshape the 2028 presidential race? Caroline Downey, Marc Short, and Chris Cillizza break down the possibilities.
Plus, the U.S. is reportedly considering renewed military action against Iran after the midterms as diplomatic talks continue. Vice Admiral Robert Harward analyzes the developments. "On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here:War Notes | Leland Vittert | Substack #onbalance
This episode originally aired on 10/29/2026.
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41 min
Are Democrats getting the wrong message ahead of the midterms? | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert discusses whether Democrats are taking the wrong message from the midterm elections before the votes are even counted. Mark Halperin, Larry O’Connor and Kevin Walling weigh in.
Meanwhile, Republican Minnesota Senate candidate Michele Tafoya discusses her campaign and the political divide in Minnesota.
Later, Israelis vote on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s future and the direction of the war with Iran. Ambassador Kurt Volker and Batya Ungar-Sargon examine the implications.
Plus, Anthropic’s potential $2 trillion IPO raises questions about the financial incentives behind AI development and the risks of the technology. Attorney Jay Edelson breaks down the concerns.
This episode originally aired on 10/28/2026.
"On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here: https://www.warnotes.com/ #OnBalanceNewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all Americans. More from NewsNation: https://www.newsnationnow.com/Get our app: https://trib.al/TBXgYppFind us on cable: https://trib.al/YDOpGyGHow to watch on TV or streaming: https://trib.al/Vu0Ikij
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41 min
Trump, Obama rally support for candidates ahead of the midterms | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert discusses President Trump and former President Obama returning to their old political playbooks as the midterm elections approach. Bill O’Reilly weighs in. Meanwhile, U.S. military bases are preparing for potential disruptions to power and food supplies amid warnings of Iranian threats abroad. Brigadier General John Teichert assesses the security concerns. Later, with just over a week until the midterms, more than 30 million Americans have already voted. Brian Entin, Scott Tranter, and Lauren Wright break down the early voting numbers. Plus, new Gallup research suggests Americans share more values than political divisions might indicate. Monsignor Jim Lisante examines the disconnect.This episode originally aired Oct. 26, 2026.#trump #obama #midterms "On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here: https://www.warnotes.com/ #OnBalanceNewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all Americans. More from NewsNation: https://www.newsnationnow.com/Get our app: https://trib.al/TBXgYppFind us on cable: https://trib.al/YDOpGyGHow to watch on TV or streaming: https://trib.al/Vu0Ikij
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41 min
Republicans are at arm's length with President Trump for midterms | On Balance Full Episode
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert discusses Republicans distancing themselves from President Trump over the economy. Stephen Moore, Steve Cortes and Wendy Edelberg weigh in on the implications for midterms.Meanwhile, President Trump reportedly called Elon Musk to lift Starlink restrictions in Ukraine as Russia continues its attacks on Kyiv. Retired Brigadier General John Teichert examines what is stopping a peace deal.Later, could the midterm elections be closer than the polls suggest? Scott Tranter breaks down the forecasts. Also, the controversy surrounding a documentary about the late Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.).Plus, the latest on Representative Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) and her response to allegations about her marriage. Dan Cogdell and Berit Berger assess the legal questions.This episode originally aired on Oct 22, 2026."On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here: https://www.warnotes.com/ #OnBalanceNewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all Americans. More from NewsNation: https://www.newsnationnow.com/Get our app: https://trib.al/TBXgYppFind us on cable: https://trib.al/YDOpGyGHow to watch on TV or streaming: https://trib.al/Vu0Ikij
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38 min
Midterm countdown: Why both parties are nervous | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert discusses why both Republicans and Democrats are anxious about the polls ahead of the midterm elections. Chris Cillizza, Yemisi Egbewole and Tyler O'Neill weigh in.
Meanwhile, does Elon Musk have too much influence over the war in Ukraine? Vice Adm. Robert Harward examines the implications.
Later, controversial candidates and scandals are complicating close races for both parties. Meghan Hays and Evan Barker break down the political fallout.
Plus, concerns are growing over unauthorized AI agents accessing U.S. bank accounts. Anthony Vinci assesses the potential risks.
"On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's biggest stories.
Weekdays at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT.
Subscribe to the War Notes newsletter: https://www.warnotes.com/
#OnBalance
This episode originally aired Oct. 23, 2026.
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29 min
The biggest race in America | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert analyzes the Michigan Senate debate blow-up. Peter Meijer, Lon Johnson and Mike Nellis weigh in.
Meanwhile, could the war with Iran deliver an October surprise? Retired Vice Admiral Robert Harward assesses possible strikes on the regime.
Plus, Representative Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., finally shows her face post-raid. Tom Dupree analyzes the case.
#AbdulElSayed #Iran #IlhanOmar
This episode originally aired October 21, 2026.
"On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here: https://www.warnotes.com/ #OnBalance
NewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all Americans.
More from NewsNation: https://www.newsnationnow.com/
Get our app: https://trib.al/TBXgYpp
Find us on cable: https://trib.al/YDOpGyG
How to watch on TV or streaming: https://trib.al/Vu0Ikij
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41 min
Why Vivek Ramaswamy's latest ad is sparking debate | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert discusses the 2024 and 2026 election playbooks and why fear doesn't win. Mark McKinnon, former Representative Charlie Dent and Steve Cortes weigh in.Meanwhile, two weeks to go until the midterm elections and what Kalshi is saying about the race in Ohio. Shelby Talcott and Austin Campbell break down the latest.Later, the investigation involving Representative Ilhan Omar. Alan Dershowitz examines the legal implications.Also, a new report raises questions about wealth and corruption in America, while Elon Musk pledges to give every American child a share of SpaceX.Plus, the latest on Ukraine. Representative Adam Smith assesses the situation.This episode originally aired Oct. 20, 2026.#trump #kalshi #elonmusk "On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here: https://www.warnotes.com/ #OnBalanceNewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all Americans. More from NewsNation: https://www.newsnationnow.com/Get our app: https://trib.al/TBXgYppFind us on cable: https://trib.al/YDOpGyGHow to watch on TV or streaming: https://trib.al/Vu0Ikij
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41 min
Is America confronting evil in Ukraine? | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert discusses whether we are confronting evil or appeasing it. Bill O’Reilly weighs in.
Meanwhile, just 15 days to go until the midterm elections. Kurt Bardella, Scott Tranter, and Chris Cillizza break down the political landscape.
Later, France erupted in protests. Margot Haddad and Lauren Wright examine the unrest.
Plus, can Democrats cry weaponization over Representative Ilhan Omar (D-MN) while Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) is accused of weaponizing staffers? Corbin Trent assesses the controversy.
This episode originally aired on Oct. 19, 2026.
"On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here: https://www.warnotes.com/ #OnBalance
NewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all Americans.
More from NewsNation: https://www.newsnationnow.com/
Get our app: https://trib.al/TBXgYpp
Find us on cable: https://trib.al/YDOpGyG
How to watch on TV or streaming: https://trib.al/Vu0Ikij
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41 min
Shooting at Oregon elementary school leaves multiple dead | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert gives the latest on the breaking news from Oregon, where a shooting at an elementary school has left multiple people dead.
Meanwhile, Trump and Zelenskyy continue their public spat. Can Trump get Zelenskyy in line? Ambassador John Bolton provides insight on the state of the conflict.
Later, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez shows her support for Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan. What does it all mean for her possible 2028 bid? Yemisi Egebwole and Mick Mulvaney discuss the state of the races.
Also, The Wall Street Journal reports Katie Zacharia never actually passed the bar exam. What is next for the new press secretary? Katie Pavlich gives her thoughts.Plus, more details on the elementary school shooting in Oregon. New York Times best seller Malcolm Gladwell gives his take on the future of gun control.
This episode originally aired on 10/16/2026.
"On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here: https://www.warnotes.com/ #OnBalanceNewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all Americans. More from NewsNation: https://www.newsnationnow.com/Get our app: https://trib.al/TBXgYppFind us on cable: https://trib.al/YDOpGyGHow to watch on TV or streaming: https://trib.al/Vu0Ikij
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40 min
The failing economy and the fading American Dream | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert discusses the failing economy and the fading American dream.
Representative Mike Lawler (R-NY), Mike Nellis, and Rod Blagojevich weigh in.Meanwhile, is a Democratic tsunami coming? Scott Tranter analyzes the electoral landscape.
Later, the latest on Ukraine and Starlink. Vice Admiral Robert Harward examines the military implications.
Also, we may not be as divided as we think we are. Liberty Vittert Capito explores the data.Plus, the controversy surrounding U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle. Anthony Scaramucci addresses the allegations.
This episode originally aired on 10/15/2026.
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28 min
How the midterm polls might be wrong | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert discusses why the polls might be wrong. Frank Luntz weighs in.
Later, who is the Muslim Brotherhood? Dr. Zuhdi Jasser breaks down the organization and its influence.
Plus, Katie Zacharia took over as White House press secretary today. Reagan Reese and former Representative Charlie Dent (R-PA) assess the implications.
This episode originally aired on 10/14/2026.
"On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here: https://www.warnotes.com/ #OnBalanceNewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all Americans. More from NewsNation: https://www.newsnationnow.com/Get our app: https://trib.al/TBXgYppFind us on cable: https://trib.al/YDOpGyGHow to watch on TV or streaming: https://trib.al/Vu0Ikij
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41 min
Hurricane Isaias batters Gulf Coast | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert discusses the latest on Hurricane Isaias as it bears down on the Gulf Coast. NewsNation's Bennett Haeberle, storm chaser Rob McBay, Sheriff Chip Simmons, Biloxi Fire Department Emergency Manager Brian Dawkins and meteorologist Blake Mathews provide updates on the storm's impact.Meanwhile, it's debate week in America as the midterm elections are less than four weeks away. Mark Halperin and Larry O'Connor break down the politics that could reshape the country.Plus, could an AI apocalypse be on the horizon? Nate Soares examines the potential threat.This episode originally aired Oct. 9, 2026.#hurricane #midterms #trump "On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here: https://www.warnotes.com/ #OnBalanceNewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all Americans. More from NewsNation: https://www.newsnationnow.com/Get our app: https://trib.al/TBXgYppFind us on cable: https://trib.al/YDOpGyGHow to watch on TV or streaming: https://trib.al/Vu0Ikij
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41 min
Michigan Senate debate turns personal between El-Sayed and Rogers | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert discusses the U.S. Senate debate in Michigan between Democrat Abdul El-Sayed and Republican Mike Rogers. Rick Albin and Matt Miller weigh in. Meanwhile, President Trump claims the war with Iran will not restart as Iran attacks Saudi Arabia today. Vice Admiral Robert Harward assesses the situation. Later, an El-Sayed victory in Michigan could start a new chapter in American politics. Shelby Talcott, Madeline Summerville, and former Representative Charlie Dent, R-Penn., examine the implications Plus, recapping the biggest moments from tonight’s debate. Marshall Kilgore and Michigan State Representative Republican Bryan break down the highlights.#trump #michigan #iran This episode originally aired Oct. 8, 2026."On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here: https://www.warnotes.com/ #OnBalanceNewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all Americans. More from NewsNation: https://www.newsnationnow.com/Get our app: https://trib.al/TBXgYppFind us on cable: https://trib.al/YDOpGyGHow to watch on TV or streaming: https://trib.al/Vu0Ikij
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41 min
Why Abdul El-Sayed is drawing Trump comparisons | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert discusses how similar Democratic Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed is to President Trump. Republican Michigan State Representative Bryan Posthumus and Adolph Mongo weigh in. Meanwhile, the economy continues to hurt Americans. Steve Cortes examines the impact. Later, three years after October 7, Mamdani’s tweet highlights Democrats’ Jewish voter problem. Corbin Trent and Joel Rubin assess the controversy. Plus, are the polls real? Chris Cillizza breaks down the numbers."On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here: https://www.warnotes.com/ #OnBalanceNewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all Americans. More from NewsNation: https://www.newsnationnow.com/Get our app: https://trib.al/TBXgYppFind us on cable: https://trib.al/YDOpGyGHow to watch on TV or streaming: https://trib.al/Vu0Ikij
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42 min
Can Russia be trusted to tell the truth about the plague? | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert discusses how President Trump is attempting to address rising prices and the struggling economy. Bill O’Reilly breaks down what it means for Americans.Meanwhile, we are four weeks out from the midterm elections. Scott Tranter analyzes the state of the races.Later, the developing plague outbreak in Russia. Dr. Ashish Jha and Lindsay Moran examine the potential public health threat and Russia’s lack of transparency.Plus, the U.S. has moved B-1 bombers out of the UK amid concerns over potential Iran-linked threats. Brigadier General John Teichert assesses the security concerns.This episode originally aired Oct. 5, 2026."On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here: https://www.warnotes.com/ #OnBalanceNewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all Americans. More from NewsNation: https://www.newsnationnow.com/Get our app: https://trib.al/TBXgYppFind us on cable: https://trib.al/YDOpGyGHow to watch on TV or streaming: https://trib.al/Vu0Ikij
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41 min
Affordability takes center stage as the midterms near | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Batya Ungar-Sargon fills in for Leland Vittert and discusses the failing economy as the midterm elections are now just four weeks away. Peter Navarro weighs in. Meanwhile, new developments on the Cornell rape allegations. Donte Mills and Olivia Reingold examine the latest. Later, all eyes are on the Michigan Senate race. Leland Vittert breaks down the race live from Michigan. Also, tomorrow marks three years since the Oct.7 massacres in Israel. Plus, student protests are consuming France. Nile Gardiner assesses the unrest. This episode originally aired Oct. 6, 2026."On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here: https://www.warnotes.com/ #OnBalanceNewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all Americans. More from NewsNation: https://www.newsnationnow.com/Get our app: https://trib.al/TBXgYppFind us on cable: https://trib.al/YDOpGyGHow to watch on TV or streaming: https://trib.al/Vu0Ikij
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41 min
New developments in the Cornell 7 case | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert examines new developments in the Cornell University fraternity rape case. Dr. Judith Joseph and Lauren Wright offer their analysis and perspective on the fallout.Meanwhile, with 32 days until the midterm elections, has the blue wave peaked? Iowa Republican gubernatorial candidate Zach Lahn joins the show.Later, we look at the aftermath of the attempted Flydubai hijacking. How can it be prevented from happening again? Arik Arad and Chris Swecker offer their insight.Finally, is President Trump getting too close to the aristocracy? Batya Ungar-Sargon weighs in."On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here: https://www.warnotes.com/ #OnBalanceNewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all Americans. More from NewsNation: https://www.newsnationnow.com/Get our app: https://trib.al/TBXgYppFind us on cable: https://trib.al/YDOpGyGHow to watch on TV or streaming: https://trib.al/Vu0Ikij
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41 min
Trump starts his midterm campaign blitz in red states | On Balance Full Show
Show notes
On this episode of "On Balance," Leland Vittert explains why President Trump is really campaigning in red states ahead of the midterms. Mark McKinnon, Madeline Summerville and Evan Barker discuss whether Trump is too toxic to campaign in swing states. Meanwhile, new text messages further cloud what may have transpired at a Cornell University fraternity party in October 2024. Victims’ Rights attorney Gloria Allred offers her legal analysis on the case's developments.Later, new details on the attempted hijacking of a FlyDubai flight to Israel. NewsNation's Libbey Dean joins live from Doha, Qatar, with the latest, and Jamie Metzl discusses the attack's political implications.Finally, a stunning development in the Iran War. Oil exports moving through the Strait of Hormuz have nearly reached pre-war levels. Congressman Adam Smith, D-Wash., and Michael O'Hanlon join to explain why time is now on the United States' side. #trump #iran #cornell This episode originally aired Oct. 1, 2026."On Balance with Leland Vittert" takes a critical look at some of the day's hottest subjects. Weekdays at 9p/8C. Subscribe to his War Notes newsletter here: https://www.warnotes.com/ #OnBalanceNewsNation is your source for fact-based, unbiased news for all Americans. More from NewsNation: https://www.newsnationnow.com/Get our app: https://trib.al/TBXgYppFind us on cable: https://trib.al/YDOpGyGHow to watch on TV or streaming: https://trib.al/Vu0Ikij
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