Ted Cruz faces backlash over Cancun trip during Texas storm
- Ted Cruz's Cancun trip during a deadly winter storm in February 2021 has led to significant backlash and criticism.
- Colin Allred, Cruz's Democratic challenger, is capitalizing on this scandal in his campaign ads, framing Cruz as having abandoned Texans.
- As the election approaches, the race is tightening, with increased funding from Democrats indicating a serious challenge to Cruz's incumbency.
In Texas, Republican Senator Ted Cruz is facing a challenging re-election campaign, largely influenced by his controversial trip to Cancun during a deadly winter storm in February 2021. This storm resulted in the deaths of 246 Texans and left millions without essential services. Cruz's decision to vacation while his constituents suffered led to significant backlash, earning him the nickname 'Cancun Cruz.' His attempts to justify the trip as a family obligation were met with skepticism, especially after a viral image of his dog left alone at home surfaced. As the November election approaches, Cruz's Democratic opponent, Colin Allred, is leveraging this scandal in campaign ads, portraying Cruz as having abandoned Texans in their time of need. Pollster Jessica Taylor notes that Cruz's past actions have made him a polarizing figure, and Allred's campaign is gaining traction, with Cruz's lead narrowing to just a few points. The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee is increasing its financial support for Allred, indicating a serious effort to challenge Cruz's incumbency. The outcome of this race is critical for Democrats aiming to maintain their slim majority in the Senate, making Texas a key battleground in the upcoming elections.