'Left-wing activist's false allegations…': Ted Cruz, Cantwell clash over Trump's Coast Guard pick

A heated Senate showdown has erupted over President Donald Trump's nominee to lead the US Coast Guard, with Republican Senator Ted Cruz defending Commander Jesse Millard against allegations of whistleblower retaliation. During remarks on the Senate floor on November 10, 2026, Cruz backed Millard's nomination to become Commandant of the Coast Guard, accusing Democrats of trying to damage his distinguished career over what Cruz described as false allegations. But Senator Maria Cantwell opposed the nomination, citing a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Inspector General report.