Trump Drops SURPRISE SCOTUS Nominee Pick!

President Trump joked that nominating Ted Cruz to the Supreme Court would unite Democrats and Republicans in a rare 100% bipartisan vote—just to get the feisty senator out of Congress.

Story Snapshot

Trump praises Cruz as “amazing,” “talented,” and “smart” during Texas port event, while calling him a “pain in the a–.”
Joke leverages Cruz’s elite legal resume: Harvard Law, Rehnquist clerkship, 9 Supreme Court arguments.
Timing boosts Cruz ahead of Texas primaries; signals Trump’s focus on court vacancies.
No current vacancy or formal nomination; purely humorous nod to Cruz’s polarizing style.

Event at Port of Corpus Christi

President Donald Trump visited the Port of Corpus Christi, Texas, with Senator Ted Cruz, Governor Greg Abbott, and Energy Secretary Chris Wright. Trump delivered remarks on energy affordability and economic growth. During press interaction, he floated nominating Cruz to the Supreme Court. Trump claimed both parties would back it unanimously to remove Cruz from the Senate. The event tied to pre-March 3 primaries and brief Iran tensions discussion.

Trump’s Exact Words and Praise

Trump described Cruz as the only senator earning 100% Democrat and Republican votes. “They want to get him out of there,” Trump said, laughing. He hailed Cruz as amazing, talented, smart, and a pain in the ass. Trump highlighted Cruz’s legal prowess amid energy talks. The remark echoed earlier praise at a DC summit. Cruz stood nearby but offered no quoted response. Photos captured their handshake at the port.

WATCH: Trump Says He is Considering Nominating Ted Cruz for the Supreme Court https://t.co/E6zTWtaljt #gatewaypundit via @gatewaypundit

— Sky (@NeptuneSky777) February 28, 2026

Cruz’s Impressive Legal Background

Ted Cruz clerked for Chief Justice William Rehnquist and argued nine cases before the Supreme Court as Texas Solicitor General. No current senator matches this record. Cruz graduated from Harvard Law and entered the Senate in 2013, championing limited government and national security. Trump listed him as a 2020 potential pick but chose others. Cruz’s 2016 presidential bid ended after losing to Trump in Indiana.

Strategic Timing and Political Context

The joke landed days before Texas March 3 primaries, energizing Cruz’s profile. Republicans hold a 53-47 Senate edge, pushing quick nominations before 2026 midterms. Justices like Clarence Thomas, age 77, fuel retirement speculation. No vacancy exists now. Trump consulted Cruz on Iran en route. The humor exploits Cruz’s cross-party irritation, turning a flaw into bipartisan appeal from Trump’s view.

Historical Precedents and Rarity

No sitting senator has joined the Supreme Court since Harold Hitz Burton in 1945, appointed by Truman. Cruz’s credentials mirror modern nominees: top clerkships and court arguments. Trump has playfully floated picks before. Senate Republicans prioritize conservative court locks. Democrats decry Cruz’s style, aligning unwittingly with the jest. Mitch McConnell’s Judiciary Committee would gatekeep any real push.

Short-Term Boost and Long-Term Stakes

The nod rallies Texas Republicans and GOP base on judicial battles. It spotlights SCOTUS as a 2026 flashpoint. Conservative legal experts affirm Cruz fits the mold but note Senate exit risks. Left-leaning views stress his divisiveness; conservative outlets celebrate talent. Facts support the joke’s logic—Cruz irks foes enough for odd unity. Common sense aligns: Secure the court pre-midterms.

WATCH: Trump Says He is Considering Nominating Ted Cruz for the Supreme Court https://t.co/F37Z4Yibcn #gatewaypundit via @gatewaypundit

— Vote RED! (@PetsRescues) February 28, 2026