Sen. Cruz says when he described Jan. 6 as 'a violent terrorist attack on the Capitol,' his phrasing was 'sloppy,' and he was referring to those who assaulted police

Republican Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas says that when he described Jan. 6, 2021 as "a violent terrorist attack on the Capitol," he was referring to the individuals who had attacked law enforcement officers.

Cruz on Wednesday noted the upcoming Jan. 6 anniversary, describing it as "a violent terrorist attack on the Capitol where we saw the men and women of law enforcement demonstrate incredible courage, incredible bravery, risk their lives to defend the men and women who serve in this Capitol." The conservative senator noted that he believes "anyone who assaults a law enforcement officer should go to jail for a very long time."

During an interview on Thursday night's episode of "Tucker Carlson Tonight," Cruz described his phrasing as "sloppy" and "dumb."

He said that he was referring those who perpetrated attacks against law enforcement and that, "for a decade, I have referred to people who violently assault police officers as terrorists."

Tucker Carlson told the senator that he did not believe him. "And I mean that with respect, because I have such respect for your acuity and precision and I've seen it on display," Carlson said.

Cruz said that "it was a mistake to use the word yesterday because the Democrats and the corporate media have so politicized it. They're trying to paint everyone as a terrorist and it's a lie."

The lawmaker has served in the U.S. Senate since 2013. He ran for president during the 2016 election cycle and has said that he would "absolutely" consider mounting another presidential bid.