‘Simpsons’ Showrunner Says Ted Cruz “Could Use A Pacifier In His Mouth” After Those CPAC Comments

Ted Cruz may be a self-professed The Simpsons fan, but showrunner Al Jean probably wishes the senator would stop making bad references to his animated series. During a February 22 appearance at CPAC, Cruz and moderator Ben Domenech brought up The Simpsons and sorted the characters into either the Republican or Democratic parties. Jean thinks Cruz got it all wrong.

“Homer points out that guns are for things like protecting your family, hunting delicious animals and making sure that the king of England never shows up to push you around,” Domenech told Cruz, who replied, “All good things.”

“I think the Democrats are the party of Lisa Simpson,” Cruz said, “and Republicans are happily the party of Homer and Bart and Maggie and Marge.”

Jean quickly responded to the show’s reference by slamming Cruz on Twitter: “Ted Cruz says Maggie Simpson would vote for him. I think Ted’s the one who could use a pacifier in his mouth.”

Jean elaborated on his thoughts to The Daily Beast, joking: “I like that Mr. Cruz enjoys The Simpsons, but I think his understanding of the characters is weak. I think if he explored Lisa’s positions, he’s a smart man, he might change his mind.”

Jean’s dig at Cruz is the second time this week a show has fought back after being wrongfully referenced. The cast and creator of Parks and Recreation slammed the National Rifle Association after the group used a meme of Leslie Knope on their Twitter page.

Where to stream The Simpsons