Texas Sen. Ted Cruz traveled to Mexico on Wednesday (February 17) as millions across his state continue to go without power and running water amid a fierce winter storm.
A photo of Cruz and his family on a plane headed to Cancun circulated social media, sparking outrage from those who’ve been left without power, water, or answers for when they can get either back.
“Ted Cruz had already proven to be an enemy to our democracy by inciting an insurrection. Now, he is proving to be an enemy to our state by abandoning us in our greatest time of need,” Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinjosa said Thursday (February 18).
A source familiar with the situation told The Associated Press that Cruz traveled to Cancun for a planned trip with his family. He was reportedly expected to return right away, and according to CNN, is expected back Thursday afternoon (February 18).
On the day Cruz left for vacation, millions were on their fourth day without power and under a boil water advisory as available drinking water has been deemed unsafe for consumption. An estimated 38 people have already died as a result of the winter storm, including a mother and 8-year-old girl who died of carbon monoxide poisoning trying to stay warm in their car.
Hospitals across the state are struggling to maintain water pressure in facilities though the coronavirus pandemic remains a real threat. Fire departments are also reporting water pressure issues even as the winter storm has increased emergency calls.
Staff members from Cruz’s office reportedly reached out to the Houston Police Department on Wednesday afternoon (February 17) to share that Cruz would be arriving at one the city’s airports. Department spokeswoman Jodi Silva shared that officers “monitored his movements” while the senator moved throughout the airport, but couldn’t give details on his schedule or whether reaching out for a return flight was typical for him.
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