Partial Government Shutdown Continues

As a partial government shutdown persists due to an impasse over Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, R-Texas, has been seen traveling. He was observed at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Florida on Tuesday.

Cruz Spotted in Fort Lauderdale

A fellow traveler spotted Senator Cruz at the airport as Congress struggles to reach an agreement on DHS funding. The shutdown has significantly impacted the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), with agents working without pay and many calling out sick, leading to lengthy delays at airports nationwide.

Increased Security Detail

A photograph obtained by TMZ shows Senator Cruz surrounded by as many as four law enforcement officers while waiting for his flight. This detail has drawn attention amidst the ongoing shutdown and its impact on federal employees.

Recent Travel and Past Criticism

Since Congress began a two-week recess, Senator Cruz has also been reported to be in Houston, Texas, and at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Dallas. This is not the first time Senator Cruz’s travel during a crisis has faced scrutiny.

Past Controversies

In 2021, Senator Cruz received significant criticism for traveling with his family to Cancun, Mexico, during Winter Storm Uri, which caused widespread power outages and resulted in approximately 200 deaths in Texas. He also faced backlash for vacationing in Greece during the summer’s Kerrville floods.

Social Media Reaction

Social media users quickly reacted to the news of Senator Cruz’s Florida trip, referencing the previous criticism he received for traveling during times of crisis. Senator Cruz and former Fox News personality have also exchanged criticisms since last summer.

Reporting by Michael Karlis

Michael Karlis, a multimedia journalist at the San Antonio Current, reported on this story, focusing on local and state political coverage.