Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, asserted Thursday that a growing progressive movement within the Democratic Party is paralyzing bipartisan cooperation, particularly on issues such as permitting reform. He stated that moderates are "terrified of the extreme left," significantly reducing the likelihood of finding common ground before the November midterm elections.
Speaking at an energy summit hosted by the Club for Growth, Cruz identified Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., as being "truly terrified" by this progressive wave, which he described as a "revolution" that has captured the party's energy, power, and activists. Cruz pointed to figures like New York City Mayor Mamdani, whom he called "the single most powerful Democrat in the country," as indicative of this leftward shift.
Recent electoral successes by progressive candidates, including those backed by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), have further emboldened this faction. Examples cited include Darializa Avila Chevalier's primary victory over Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-N.Y., and Melat Kiros's defeat of Rep. Diana DeGette, D-Colo., after decades in office. Cruz suggested that the fear of alienating these progressive elements prevents establishment Democrats, including leadership, from demonstrating acts of principle or courage.
Despite these concerns, other speakers at the summit expressed optimism about potential areas of bipartisan agreement. Energy Secretary Chris Wright highlighted permitting reform as a crucial area that could unite both parties to expand domestic energy projects, including nuclear power. He noted that cumbersome regulations have significantly hindered the development of new nuclear reactors in the U.S. for decades, suggesting that streamlining these processes could lead to lower energy prices and better environmental stewardship.
Sen. Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the practical mechanics of reform over political conflict. He stated that progress on permitting reform would mean lower energy prices and improved environmental care, goals that "should unite all of us."
However, Cruz maintained that the influence of the progressive wing, driven by young people and activist groups, creates an environment where bipartisan compromise on ideological issues is increasingly difficult. He suggested that the energy and money flowing to this wing of the party gives it significant leverage over more moderate Democrats.