President Donald Trump surprised supporters and reporters alike Monday after joking that one Republican senator could someday become a U.S. Supreme Court justice.
The lighthearted exchange took place during a White House event celebrating the launch of Trump Accounts, a new savings program designed to help young Americans build long-term financial security. As Trump thanked the lawmakers who helped make the initiative possible, he paused to recognize Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas).
The president reflected on their competitive 2016 Republican presidential primary, describing Cruz as a tough opponent before noting that the two have developed a strong working relationship over the years.
Trump praised Cruz’s legal background and his work in the Senate, calling him a brilliant attorney and a respected conservative voice. He then joked that Cruz would have one of the easiest Supreme Court confirmation votes in history.
According to Trump, Republicans would enthusiastically support Cruz, while Democrats would also vote to confirm him because they would be happy to see him leave the Senate. The remark drew laughter from those attending the event.
Although made in jest, the comments quickly sparked discussion online, with many wondering whether Trump sees Cruz as a possible judicial candidate in the future.
When Cruz later addressed the audience, he thanked the president for “getting rid of that ridiculous red card,” referring to the controversy surrounding U.S. Men’s National Team forward Folarin Balogun.
Reports indicated that Trump contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of Balogun’s disputed red card, which would have sidelined the American star for the team’s World Cup match against Belgium. During a question-and-answer session following the event, Trump confirmed that he had reached out regarding the situation.
After FIFA reviewed the play, the suspension was overturned, allowing Balogun to participate in the match. The decision prompted praise from many American soccer fans, while others questioned whether political influence should play any role in international sports. Belgian officials also challenged the ruling through FIFA’s appeals process.
Despite the attention surrounding the soccer controversy, Monday’s event remained focused on the rollout of Trump Accounts, a program the administration says is intended to give America’s young people a stronger financial foundation for the future.
Trump’s comments about Cruz added a memorable moment to the event and once again demonstrated the president’s ability to generate headlines while promoting one of his administration’s newest policy initiatives.