Ted Cruz Disagrees With Donald Trump On Muslim Ban But Refuses To Pile On

Republican presidential candidate Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, speaks to reporters before a rally in Little Rock, Ark., Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2015. (AP Photo/Danny Johnston)
Start your day with TPM.
Sign up for the Morning Memo newsletter

Republican presidential candidate Ted Cruz (R-TX) parted company with Donald Trump over his Muslim ban Tuesday, but was careful not to join in heaping scorn on the billionaire’s proposal.

“I disagree with that proposal,” Cruz said during a press conference on Capitol Hill Tuesday. “I believe we need a plan that is focused on the direct threat.”

Cruz tried not to detail why he disagreed with Trump. He noted that he did “commend” Trump for “focusing the American people’s attention” on securing borders and keeping America safe.

Cruz argued the world did not need his voice joining in “the chorus” to decry Trump.

“In the media, there has been no shortage of criticism for Donald Trump,” Cruz said.

Cruz did say, however, he will support whoever the nominee is.

“I will absolutely support the Republican nominee, but I hope and intend for that nominee to be me.”

Latest Livewire
Comments
Masthead Masthead
Founder & Editor-in-Chief:
Executive Editor:
Managing Editor:
Associate Editor:
Editor at Large:
General Counsel:
Publisher:
Head of Product:
Director of Technology:
Associate Publisher:
Front End Developer:
Senior Designer: