Joey Reed, the father of Trevor Reed, an American Marine imprisoned in Russia for three years, has openly criticized Senator Ted Cruz in a campaign advertisement.
In the ad, Joey accused Cruz of doing nothing to help his son during the difficult period of his detention. He stated, “Ted Cruz didn’t lift a finger for us when everybody else in the state did.”
A Father’s Struggle
In a campaign advertisement produced by Democratic Representative Colin Allred, Joey Reed describes the emotional and frantic efforts to save his son, Trevor Reed, who faced charges in Russia that his family claims were unjust.
Joey shared their family’s turmoil, stating, “We were frantic, we tried to stay focused and not just break down every day crying.”
Seeking Help in High Places
Joey Reed recalls the initial outreach to political figures when his son was detained, highlighting their first contact was with Senator Ted Cruz.
The response they received was disheartening, with Joey quoting, “The first politician we called was Ted Cruz. They basically said we’re not going to be able to help you.”
Bipartisan Efforts for Trevor’s Release
Contrasting with Cruz’s alleged inaction, Joey Reed praised Representative Colin Allred for his proactive approach.
Allred worked across party lines to secure Trevor’s release, with Joey stating, “Colin Allred was right there working with both parties to bring our son home,” emphasizing the bipartisan support minus Cruz’s involvement.
National Support, One Exception
Joey Reed pointed out the widespread political support for his son, involving multiple co-sponsors of a House resolution from both parties, yet noted Cruz’s absence.
He expressed his disappointment by saying, “The one person missing from everything was Ted Cruz.”
Questioning Cruz’s Commitment
In the ad, Joey Reed expressed a stern view of Senator Cruz’s actions, or lack thereof.
He said, “Ted Cruz is not here for Texas, Ted Cruz is here for Ted Cruz,” suggesting that Cruz was uninvolved and unhelpful during his son’s detainment.
Cruz’s Office Responds
In reaction to the advertisement, a spokesperson for Senator Cruz, Macarena Martinez, defended his record.
She said, “Senator Cruz was incredibly relieved for Trevor and his family when he was released from wrongful detention in Russia and safely returned home.”
Highlighting Cruz’s Efforts
Cruz’s spokesperson outlined his contributions to similar cases.
They noted, “Senator Cruz has been a leader throughout his Senate career in fighting for the return of unjustly held Americans. He has been instrumental in bringing home American hostages from Lebanon and Venezuela.”
The Incident Leading to Detention
Trevor Reed was arrested in Moscow in 2019 after being accused of attacking police officers while intoxicated, an allegation he denied, claiming the charges were baseless.
He was sentenced to nine years in prison, despite pleading not guilty and contesting the charges.
The Family’s Defense
Throughout Trevor Reed’s imprisonment, his family challenged the legitimacy of the charges, especially questioning the absence of video evidence and alleging inconsistencies in the police reports.
They vehemently defended his innocence and worked tirelessly for his release.
Presidential Acknowledgment
Upon Trevor Reed’s release, President Biden acknowledged his return.
He said, “Today, we welcome home Trevor Reed and celebrate his return to the family that missed him dearly. Trevor, a former U.S. Marine, is free from Russian detention.”
Continuing Service
After being freed, Trevor Reed continued to engage in conflict zones, volunteering in Ukraine in 2023 where he was wounded in action against Russian forces.
This incident led to his subsequent medical treatment in Germany, highlighting his ongoing commitment to global conflicts.
