A major winter storm is on the horizon, affecting a vast area of the United States. As Texas prepares for severe weather conditions, Senator Ted Cruz’s recent travel plans have drawn attention. He was seen boarding a flight to Southern California just as his home state braces for an impending winter storm.
Ted Cruz’s Travel Plans Amid Texas Winter Storm
Shea Jordan Smith, a political strategist, shared a photo of Cruz on a flight on January 20, heading to Southern California. According to Cruz’s office, the trip was “pre-planned work travel” arranged weeks in advance. The senator plans to return to Texas before the storm hits.
The intended destination was reportedly Laguna Beach. However, this small coastal town does not have an airport, leading to inquiries about actual travel arrangements. The nearest airport is John Wayne Airport in Orange County. El-Balad has reached out to confirm these details.
Past Incidents and Comparisons
Cruz’s flight spurred comparisons to his controversial trip to Cancún, Mexico, during a winter storm in 2021. At that time, he acknowledged that the trip was “obviously a mistake.” In a similar instance, he was criticized for being in Greece during flash floods that devastated parts of Texas in 2025, although he returned swiftly.
Forecasts of the Winter Storm
The National Weather Service warns of a significant winter storm due to impact Texas and extend towards the Northeast. The storm is anticipated to occur from January 23 through January 25. It is expected to cover a 2,000-mile stretch, bringing ice and snow to many regions.
- Impacted Areas: From the southern Rockies and Plains to the Mid-Atlantic and New England.
- Weather Hazards: Heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain are forecasted.
- Advisories: Residents are encouraged to monitor updates on weather conditions.
As preparations unfold, officials recommend residents remain vigilant about the winter storm’s trajectory and potential impacts. Warming shelters and salt stockpiles are being organized in anticipation of hazardous conditions. El-Balad will continue to provide updates as the situation develops.
