Senator Ted Cruz, a Republican from Texas, is proposing private screenings and security escorts for certain elected officials at airports, sparking controversy in light of his past actions, including his trip to Cancun during Texas’ winter freeze in 2021. When questioned about the details of his proposal by ABC13’s Pooja Lodhia at an event in River Oaks, Cruz avoided addressing the issue directly.
Lodhia asked if such measures were necessary due to threats at airports and whether it was the best image, given the backlash from Cruz’s Cancun trip. Cruz deflected the question, emphasizing the focus on jobs and economic opportunities in Texas during a meeting with business leaders.
He acknowledged the growing threats against public officials and stressed the need for reasonable measures to ensure safety in a society facing increased violence. However, he urged Lodhia to concentrate on substantive issues rather than political jabs.
The media availability was abruptly ended after Cruz’s response. Lodhia had informed Cruz’s press team beforehand that she intended to ask about the airport security proposal, as encouraged by them.
Cruz’s proposal calls for security escorts and private airport screenings for members of Congress, federal judges, and cabinet members. His spokesperson claims the proposal aims to address rising security threats at airports but insists it wouldn’t isolate or conceal VIPs from the public. However, questions about funding for the additional security measures remain unanswered.
