Ted Cruz Discusses Trump's 'Lyin' Ted' Nickname as 'Political Genius'

<figure><img alt="WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 11: (L-R) U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and President Donald Trump talk in the Oval Office of the White House on December 11, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trump signed an executive order that curbs states' ability to regulate artificial intelligence, something for which the tech industry has been lobbying. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)" src="https://thedailybeast-thedailybeast-prod.web.arc-cdn.net/resizer/v2/UVIO3LMQC5GDVEZ2S5VD5ZNVCU.jpg?auth=c0c9509f99f2dafe1156bd58ff0a8b2442142f6f707d436f803f3bcac76bc735&amp;smart=true&amp;width=4238&amp;height=2384" /><figcaption>Alex Wong / Getty Images</figcaption></figure><p>Senator Ted Cruz praised former President Donald Trump’s use of the nickname “Lyin’ Ted,” calling it a demonstration of “political genius.” Cruz made these comments during an appearance on Sean Hannity’s podcast, reflecting on their contentious relationship during the 2016 Republican presidential primary.</p><p>Initially allies, Cruz and Trump became rivals when Trump used the nickname to undermine Cruz’s campaign. Cruz stated that he did not feel upset by the nickname at the time, as he respected the competitive nature of politics.</p><p>Cruz described Trump as having an “instinctual marketing genius,” noting that the nickname effectively targeted his reputation for honesty. He compared Trump’s strategy to martial arts, stating, “It’s using your opponent’s strength against him.”</p><p>During the 2016 primary, Trump accused Cruz of dishonesty and questioned his eligibility for the presidency due to his Canadian birth. The feud escalated with personal attacks, including Trump’s comments about Cruz’s wife and unfounded claims about Cruz’s father.</p><p>Cruz ultimately finished second to Trump in the primaries and initially did not endorse him at the Republican National Convention. However, he later supported Trump in the general election against Hillary Clinton.</p><p>Since then, Cruz has become a loyal ally of Trump, defending him during his impeachment and supporting his challenges to the 2020 election results. In 2024, Cruz endorsed Trump for president again.</p><p>As of 2026, Cruz continues to express admiration for Trump, describing him as an “extraordinary president.” His recent comments come as he positions himself for a potential presidential run in 2028, indicating his ambitions for the future.</p>