Trump’s SCOTUS Nominee Bombshell – See Who!

Front view of the Supreme Court building with large columns and steps under a blue sky

President Trump joked that nominating Ted Cruz to the Supreme Court would win unanimous bipartisan support—because everyone in Washington wants him gone from the Senate.

Story Snapshot

Trump praised Cruz as “amazing,” “talented,” and “smart” during a Texas energy event, while calling him a “pain in the a–.”
Cruz argued 9 Supreme Court cases, clerked for Chief Justice Rehnquist, and appeared on Trump’s 2020 SCOTUS list.
Remarks came days before Texas March 3 primaries, boosting Cruz’s visibility amid 2026 midterm speculation.
No vacancy exists, but rumors swirl around Justice Clarence Thomas; last sitting senator elevated was in 1945.
Joke highlights Cruz’s polarizing style and elite credentials in a Republican 53-47 Senate majority.

Event Details at Port of Corpus Christi

President Donald Trump spoke at the Port of Corpus Christi, Texas, on a Friday in late January or early February 2026. He stood alongside Senator Ted Cruz, Governor Greg Abbott, Port CEO Kent Britton, Commission Chairman Gabe Guerra, and Energy Secretary Chris Wright. The group addressed energy production, affordability, and economic growth. Trump blended these topics with humor about Cruz’s Senate tenure.

Trump’s Exact Words and Praise for Cruz

Trump declared, “I’m thinking about putting him on the Supreme Court… 100% of the Democrat vote, 100% of the Republican vote. They want to get him out of there.” He described Cruz as amazing, talented, smart, and a pain in the a–. Trump emphasized Cruz’s legal expertise, noting his arguments before the Supreme Court. This playful pitch tied into broader remarks on Iran negotiations and military strength.

Cruz’s credentials make the joke land with weight. Harvard Law graduate Cruz clerked for Chief Justice William Rehnquist. He argued 9 cases at the Supreme Court, 8 as Texas Solicitor General—more than any other Texas lawyer or congressman during his 2012 Senate campaign. Trump previously listed him on the 2020 SCOTUS shortlist.

WATCH: Trump Says He is Considering Nominating Ted Cruz for the Supreme Court https://t.co/BuaVOrW4Ax via @gatewaypundit I like it.

— Victoria Blanchard (@Voice4thegroovy) February 28, 2026

Cruz’s Background and Senate Path

Ted Cruz entered the Senate in 2013 after defeating David Dewhurst in a runoff. His focus: limited government, economic growth, national security. He ran for president in 2016, suspending after Indiana on May 3. Republicans hold a 53-47 Senate edge ahead of 2026 midterms. Speculation grows over retirements like Justice Thomas, age 77.

The event preceded Texas’ March 3 primaries. Trump’s endorsement-style humor boosts Cruz politically. Their alliance shifted from 2016 rivalry to mutual support. No formal nomination followed; Cruz offered no response.

Stakeholders and Power Dynamics

Trump drives the narrative as president and nominator, wielding high influence on court strategy and humor. Cruz holds medium sway, needing to accept any offer while gaining primary momentum. Senate Republicans prioritize the 6-3 majority with quick confirmations. Democrats oppose conservative picks, though the joke posits unlikely unity.

Texas Republicans benefit short-term from visibility. Conservatives gain judiciary reassurance. A Senate seat vacancy could arise if pursued, shifting dynamics via gubernatorial appointment. Long-term, it pressures aging justices amid midterm risks.

Historical Precedents and Expert Views

Harry Truman nominated sitting Senator Harold Hitz Burton to the Court in 1945—the last such case. Cruz fits modern profiles: elite training, clerkship, advocacy. Experts note his unmatched court arguments among lawmakers. Legal circles eye 2026 timing for Thomas’ successor.

Fox News frames it as praise and humor. Daily Beast highlights Cruz’s divisiveness with “most-hated” label, which overreaches given his conservative record and common-sense fights against Washington excess. Texas Public Radio sees strategic vacancy potential. Consensus: pure jest, but credentials spark real talk.

NO DONT DO IT.

WATCH: Trump Says He is Considering Nominating Ted Cruz for the Supreme Court | The Gateway Pundit | by Cassandra MacDonald https://t.co/UKhRXYHzKF

— sassywindsor (@sassywindsor) February 28, 2026