Senator Ted Cruz has set ambitious goals for 2026, outlining three personal resolutions that reveal a determined focus on self-improvement and family. These aren’t policy pronouncements, but deeply personal commitments he intends to uphold throughout the year.
The first challenge is a familiar one for many at the start of a new year: weight loss. Cruz aims to shed 30 pounds, bringing his weight down from a starting point of 236 to a target of 206. He playfully acknowledges a past when he was “skinny as a rail” in college, weighing only 135 pounds, and jokes he’s now “twice the man” he used to be.
To achieve this, Cruz is embracing a ketogenic diet, meticulously cutting out carbohydrates and concentrating on a protein-rich intake of meat, cheese, and vegetables. He recognizes the difficulty of the keto lifestyle but believes in its potential for significant results.
Beyond diet, Cruz is also undertaking “Dry January,” abstaining from alcohol for the entire month. Acknowledging his enjoyment of red wine with dinner, he understands the caloric impact and its conflict with his weight loss goals. Sparkling water with lime and vitamin water have become his substitutes.
He’s found surprising solidarity in this endeavor, discovering many friends are participating in Dry January as well. A recent gathering with friends, complete with a charcuterie board and non-alcoholic beer, highlighted the ease of socializing without relying on alcohol.
The third resolution is perhaps the most profound: a daily commitment to reading the Bible. This isn’t a new practice for Cruz, but a return to a discipline he’s found essential for spiritual grounding. He wants to open his spirit to listen and allow the teachings of Jesus to influence his daily life.
He’s even arranged monthly prayer and Bible study sessions with his pastor, recognizing the importance of consistent spiritual nourishment. Faith has been a cornerstone of his life since childhood, and he acknowledges the challenges of maintaining that connection amidst the demands of public service and family life.
Twenty-one days into the new year, Cruz reports he’s making good progress on all fronts. He’s diligently adhering to the ketogenic diet and incorporating daily push-ups alongside his regular basketball games.
However, his priorities extend far beyond personal goals. A significant focus for 2026 is his two daughters, ages 15 and 17, as they approach college. He deeply cherishes the remaining time they have at home, anticipating the emotional impact of their eventual departure.
He speaks with raw emotion about the fleeting nature of time with his daughters, admitting he anticipates tears when they leave for school. He’s determined to maximize the present moments, recognizing they will never be repeated.
Looking ahead, Cruz firmly states his current focus remains on serving the 31 million people of Texas in the U.S. Senate. Any consideration of a future presidential run is secondary to his commitment to his constituents and the state he represents.
