Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) reportedly told donors that Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy would support his potential 2028 presidential campaign, according to a donor’s account. The comments were allegedly made at a fundraiser late last year as Ruddy prepared to testify before Cruz’s Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Ruddy has emerged as a leading opponent of the proposed merger between Nexstar Media Group and Tegna, arguing the deal would exceed federal broadcast ownership limits and consolidate power among left-leaning media companies. However, Ruddy has denied making any commitment to Cruz, with a Newsmax spokesman stating, “Neither he nor Newsmax have made any pledge of support for any candidate in 2028.”
President Donald Trump has taken the opposite position on the merger, urging Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approval on Truth Social. The president wrote: “We need more competition against THE ENEMY, the Fake News National TV Networks.”
Cruz, who chairs the Senate committee overseeing communications policy, has not publicly staked out a position on the proposed merger. However, he has frequently criticized the FCC under President Trump’s appointees, including Commissioner Brendan Carr for questioning ABC’s broadcast license over comments by Jimmy Kimmel blaming conservatives for the assassination of Turning Point USA (TPUSA) founder Charlie Kirk.
Cruz is reportedly weighing a 2028 presidential bid that would place him in a Republican primary against Vice President J.D. Vance. Leaked audio captures Cruz privately calling Vance a “pawn” of Tucker Carlson. Vance has indicated he plans to discuss a potential 2028 campaign with Trump after the midterms but emphasized his current focus on governing.
