Ted Cruz 2028 Run: Taking on Tucker Carlson for GOP Future

Ted Cruz Sets His Sights on 2028, With Tucker Carlson in His Crosshairs

Sen. Ted Cruz is making waves in the political arena, not just for his legislative actions but for his high-profile feud with media personality Tucker Carlson. The Texas Republican is using this fiery exchange to lay the groundwork for a potential 2028 presidential bid, positioning himself as a staunch defender of traditional, interventionist Republicanism in a party increasingly leaning towards isolationism.

Why is Cruz picking a fight with Carlson? The answer lies in the battle for the soul of the GOP post-Trump. As the party looks toward 2028, the divide between interventionists and "America First" isolationists is becoming more pronounced. Cruz is directly challenging the isolationist wing, led by Carlson and Vice President JD Vance, by attacking Carlson on several fronts, most notably his foreign policy views and his controversial interview with white nationalist Nick Fuentes.

"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." - Sen. Ted Cruz

The Heart of the Conflict: Foreign Policy and Ideology

Cruz's attacks on Carlson are not random; they are strategic. He accuses Carlson of going "bat-crap crazy" on foreign policy, pointing to his opposition to U.S. missile strikes in Iran, criticism of Israel's campaign in Gaza, and skepticism about aiding Ukraine against Russia. For Cruz, these stances are dangerous and threaten America's role as a global leader.

The feud escalated when Cruz called Carlson a "coward" and "complicit in evil" for his friendly interview with Nick Fuentes, a known Holocaust denier and white nationalist. This hit a nerve with pro-Israel donors and Jewish voters, who are a key part of the Republican base. Cruz's bold stance has earned him praise from groups like the Republican Jewish Coalition and figures such as Ben Shapiro, who also condemned Carlson.

Cruz is also focusing on other international issues, such as the persecution of Christians in Nigeria, to highlight his belief in American engagement abroad. He credits President Trump for taking a stand on this issue, contrasting it with the previous administration's inaction.

Cruz's Roadmap to 2028

Beyond the Carlson jabs, Cruz is methodically building his campaign infrastructure. He's a frequent speaker at Republican events, hosts a top-ranked podcast and radio show, and is set to host a donor retreat next year. His chairmanship of the Commerce Committee has given him access to influential business leaders, and his opposition to Trump's tariffs has also positioned him as a pragmatic figure in some circles.

Cruz is also endorsing midterm candidates, which helps him build political capital for a future run. These efforts, combined with his vocal stance on key issues, are designed to solidify his brand as a conservative alternative to the isolationist wing of the party.

The Road Ahead: A Rocky Path

Despite his efforts, Cruz faces significant hurdles. The Republican primary electorate has largely embraced the "America First" approach that Carlson and Vance champion. Polls show Vance as the frontrunner for 2028, and many GOP donors are hesitant to cross the Trump White House by supporting another candidate.

Cruz must also navigate the delicate balance between being a Trump ally and a challenger. He has worked with the administration on key issues like immigration and tax cuts, but his 2028 ambitions put him on a collision course with Trump's preferred successor, Vance.

As the 2028 race takes shape, Cruz's strategy of taking on Tucker Carlson is a bold move that could pay off by energizing a segment of the party that feels sidelined. But whether it's enough to overcome the prevailing winds of the GOP remains to be seen.