Texas Senator Ted Cruz has faced widespread criticism after flying to Cancun, Mexico, while millions of Texans endured a devastating winter storm that left many without power or water. The Republican lawmaker returned on Thursday, calling the trip a 'mistake' and saying it 'didn't feel right' to stay away.
At least 13 million Texans have been advised to boil their water after freezing temperatures caused power blackouts at treatment facilities and burst pipes. Many reservoirs are near empty, and authorities are struggling to restore supplies to homes.
In a statement, Mr Cruz said he had planned the holiday for his daughters, who had asked to travel with friends. He insisted he remained in constant communication with leaders back home. However, he later admitted it was a 'mistake' and that he understood why people were upset.
The senator was also criticised for leaving his dog, Snowflake, at home – reportedly cared for by a security guard. Democratic Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal wrote on Twitter: 'People in Texas are literally freezing to death and yet Ted Cruz went on vacation to Cancun.'
Mr Cruz's travel plans also raised concerns at his daughters' private school in Houston, which requires students returning from abroad to quarantine for seven days due to coronavirus restrictions. The school policy, reported by the New York Times, requires a negative test before returning to class.
