Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, once known primarily as a fierce conservative and partisan figure, has recently emerged as a significant bipartisan dealmaker in the U.S. Senate. Since his arrival in 2013, Cruz’s approach to governance has notably evolved, culminating in his recent involvement in negotiating a major piece of legislation addressing college athletics regulation.
Cruz gained early notoriety for his confrontational tactics, including a widely publicized all-night reading of Dr. Seuss’s “Green Eggs and Ham” during an unsuccessful attempt to defund the Affordable Care Act. His first years in the Senate were marked by contentious relationships with both Democrats and some Republicans. This reputation led to sharp criticism and labels such as “wacko bird” from figures like the late Senator John McCain. However, since the Republicans regained the Senate majority in 2024, Cruz has assumed a more pragmatic role, including chairing a key committee and working collaboratively across the aisle.
Most recently, Cruz partnered with Senator Maria Cantwell, a Democrat from Washington, to draft and negotiate a bill aimed at overhauling the regulation of college sports. The legislation, which passed the Senate with a 77-22 vote, represents a rare bipartisan achievement in a period often characterized by political gridlock. Notably, 26 Democrats and independent Senator Angus King of Maine supported the measure, alongside a majority of Republicans.
The bill seeks to address the fragmented system governing college athletics by restricting athletes’ ability to transfer schools and limiting the number of years they can play. While it includes certain protections for athletes, such as some safeguards around their rights, it also limits their ability to sue institutions or fully monetize their name, image, and likeness. This balance drew criticism from some Democrats who felt the legislation did not go far enough, particularly in terms of athlete protections and curbing exorbitant coach salaries. An amendment addressing these concerns failed to pass.
Despite the dissent, Cruz was widely praised for his meticulous and persistent efforts to craft a compromise that garnered support across party lines. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer noted Cruz’s “constructive work,” and Democrats expressed appreciation for his willingness to seek their votes. The bill now awaits consideration by the House of Representatives, with Cruz urging House Speaker Mike Johnson to schedule an early vote before the upcoming election.
Reflecting on the legislative success, Cruz emphasized the broader political significance of bipartisan cooperation, suggesting that principled policy achievements can translate into electoral gains. While he declined to confirm any presidential ambitions for 2028 tied to this legislation, Cruz indicated his belief that effective policymaking naturally serves the interests of constituents and bolsters political prospects.
The shift in Cruz’s approach—from a polarizing partisan to a dealmaker with a reputation for bipartisan collaboration—marks a notable chapter in his Senate career and contributes a rare example of cooperation in the current Congress.