Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
The Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association, along with the City of Laredo, honored U.S. Senator Ted Cruz as “Mr. South Texas” 2026 during a ceremony in Laredo.
The Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association is a group of volunteer board members, donors, and staff who organize the city’s annual Washington’s Birthday celebrations. The event was held in Laredo, a major port of entry between the United States and Mexico whose economy is closely tied to international trade.
Speakers included local officials who recognized Cruz, a Republican from Texas, for his federal advocacy on economic and infrastructure issues affecting the region. During the event, it was stated that Cruz is the only Republican to receive the “Mr. South Texas” distinction in South Texas and Laredo.
Laredo Mayor Dr. Victor D. Treviño said, “Senator Cruz has been a strong advocate for Texas and Texas jobs, Texas infrastructure, and policies that protect and strengthen our international trade.” He added that billions of dollars move through Laredo each month, supporting manufacturers, producers, farmers, small businesses, and logistics workers across the state.
Treviño said strong federal advocacy is critical to keeping ports competitive, secure, and efficient. “Senator Ted Cruz has consistently supported efforts to improve our border structure and reduce regulatory uncertainty and defend the economic engine that drives the Texas commerce,” he said. He also noted that Cruz previously received the Key to the City of Laredo and described him as “the only Republican ever to have received this honor.”
During the ceremony, Treviño presented Cruz with the Republic of the Rio Grande Ambassador designation, stating, “Be it known that Ted Cruz, United States Senator, is hereby appointed Honorary Ambassador of the Republic of the Rio Grande.”
The master of ceremonies described Cruz as “a true champion to South Texas” and cited his role in securing a presidential permit for the proposed Laredo 4/5 International Bridge as a major accomplishment. The speaker said the permit effort had taken nine years and that Cruz helped obtain approval after being asked for assistance.
“One of the things that he did for us that was very, very profound for us here in Webb County was able to secure the 4/5 bridge,” the master of ceremonies said. He added that the bridge is significant not only for Laredo and Webb County but for the state and national economy, noting that a large share of U.S. goods moves through Texas ports of entry.
Cruz, in his remarks, said, “I’m deeply humbled. I’m honored. I’m proud to be with such good friends down here in South Texas and Laredo.” He told attendees, “It’s an incredible privilege every day to fight for the men and women here to fight for jobs, to fight for opportunity, to fight for security.”
He described South Texas as “an incredibly vibrant part of our state” with a bright future and said he was optimistic about the region’s continued growth. “I’m proud to play even a small part in helping accomplish that vision,” Cruz said.
The ceremony also included the presentation of a custom belt buckle bearing Cruz’s name, reflecting local tradition. Organizers said the recognition highlighted the relationship between the senator and Laredo’s political and business leaders, particularly regarding trade and infrastructure priorities tied to the Port of Laredo and cross-border commerce.
