Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) drew widespread criticism after making a controversial remark during a Senate hearing on crime in Democratic-run cities. While advocating for bipartisan cooperation, Cruz asserted, “Let’s stop attacking pedophiles,” sparking immediate backlash from critics.

The statement followed Cruz’s comments on fostering unity, including his call to address violent crimes by saying, “How about we all come together and say let’s stop murders? How about we all come together and say let’s stop rape?” The mention of “pedophiles” drew sharp condemnation, with some linking the remarks to ongoing conspiracy theories surrounding the late Jeffrey Epstein.

Online reactions included demands for transparency, such as one user urging, “No! How about you all stop protecting them. Release the Epstein files, NOW!” Others mocked the comment as a “Freudian slip,” while another shared an image of a hat reading “PEDOPHILIA IS OK NOW.” Some sarcastically suggested attacking pedophiles was “mean, guys, let them be.”

Cruz has previously called for full disclosure of government records related to Epstein, stating that all “adults who were culpable and responsible” should face criminal prosecution. The incident highlights the intense scrutiny surrounding sensitive topics like child exploitation and political rhetoric.