Texas Sen. Ted Cruz appears to be laying the groundwork for a 2028 presidential run, leveraging a public feud with commentator Tucker Carlson to define himself as a traditionalist voice within the Republican Party.
According to Axios, Cruz has repeatedly criticized Carlson for isolationist foreign policy stances and for hosting controversial figures, including podcaster Nick Fuentes, whom Cruz described as promoting “a little goose-stepping Nazi” ideology.
In a statement to the outlet, Cruz said, “We have a responsibility to speak out even when it’s uncomfortable. When voices in our own movement push dangerous and misguided ideas, we can’t look the other way.”
“I won’t hesitate to call out those who peddle destructive, vile rhetoric and threaten our principles and our future. Silence in the face of recklessness is not an option.”
Carlson responded tersely, calling the feud “hilarious” and adding, “Good luck. That’s my comment and heartfelt view.”
Cruz has challenged Carlson on multiple fronts, including opposition to President Trump’s strike on Iran’s nuclear facility, criticism of Israel’s campaign in Gaza, and skepticism about U.S. aid to Ukraine.
He also labeled Carlson a “coward” for hosting Fuentes, signaling a broader effort to distinguish himself from both Carlson and Vice President JD Vance, widely regarded as the early frontrunner for the 2028 Republican nomination.
Republican Jewish Coalition CEO Matt Brooks told Axios, “It’s definitely getting noticed.”
Beyond public statements, Cruz has strengthened his political presence through paid speaking engagements, a top-ranked podcast and a syndicated radio show, creating a small-dollar fundraising network.
His chairmanship of the Senate Commerce Committee provides access to influential business leaders, particularly those opposed to Trump-era tariffs, according to Trending Politics.
He has also endorsed midterm candidates, a strategy often used to build influence and strengthen relationships ahead of a potential presidential bid.
On Fox News, Cruz addressed the Axios report when pressed by host Harris Faulkner.
He highlighted legislative accomplishments such as initiatives supporting school choice and oversight of Trump-related accounts, while refusing to confirm his 2028 intentions.
Social media has reflected a mix of criticism and scrutiny.
Investigative reporter Drew Hernandez tweeted, “Ted Cruz never really ever recovered from his interview with Tucker Carlson.”
Robby Starbuck added, “Breaking: Ted Cruz will lose the 2028 primary. He has absolutely no chance against JD Vance.”
Conservative commentator Gunther Eagleman wrote, “Ted Cruz won’t even get 2% support in the primary… He has no shot.”
X account RT noted, “FLASHBACK: Cruz got bodied by Trump in 2016—how much humiliation can he take?”
Analysts suggest Cruz is carving a traditional, foreign-policy-focused niche within a GOP increasingly aligned with Carlson’s “America First” doctrine.
While Vance maintains a commanding lead, Cruz’s combination of public feuds, media appearances and donor outreach positions him as a vocal alternative for Republicans concerned about isolationism and inexperience on global issues, according to The Post Millennial.
As the 2028 cycle approaches, Cruz’s public disagreements, legislative record and media visibility are being closely monitored, indicating a deliberate effort to establish momentum for a potential campaign.
His approach signals an intent to embody the party’s traditionalist perspective amid growing internal GOP divisions.
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