Ted Cruz calls Democratic sweep a 'Watergate-level repudiation' for GOP

Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, called the Democratic sweep in the midterm elections a "Watergate-level repudiation" and an "ass-kicking" for Republicans, urging his party to focus on economic issues. He said voters were "pissed off" because Republicans failed to address their financial pain. Cruz cited high costs for food, gas, and insurance, as well as tariffs and the prolonged Iran war, as key voter concerns. He noted that over 80% of voters worried about necessities, according to NBC News exit polls, and said Republicans must champion policies that improve working people's lives. Cruz congratulated Democratic Sen.-elect James Talarico and said he would work with reasonable Democrats, though he insisted "Texas will be red again." Sen. John Cornyn, who lost his primary, also acknowledged economic shortcomings and called for a "big-tent" party focused on daily concerns.