Ted Cruz rallies supporters at the Big Texan, focuses on jobs, freedom, and security

Posted by Admin October 19, 2024 Jobs

Senator Ted Cruz brought his re-election campaign to Amarillo on Wednesday night, holding a spirited rally with over 400 attendees at the Big Texan Steak Ranch. Against a backdrop of Texas pride, Cruz emphasized the importance of conservative values and urged attendees to mobilize ahead of the upcoming election.

The event kicked off with an invocation by Pastor Rafael Cruz, the senator’s father. Throughout the night, various speakers took to the stage, including state representative candidate Caroline Fairly, who described Cruz as a steadfast advocate for Texas values. “If Texas turns blue, so goes the nation,” she warned, underscoring the stakes of the Senate race.

Taking the stage to enthusiastic cheers, Cruz framed the election as a crucial moment in American politics. “This is not a battle between Republican and Democrat. It’s not a battle between conservative and liberal. This is a battle between sane and crazy,” he declared, drawing a stark contrast between his platform and what he sees as extreme left-wing policies.

Cruz highlighted three core issues he believes will define the election: jobs, freedom, and security.

Jobs: ‘Texas is where the jobs are’

Cruz focused heavily on economic growth and job creation, touting Texas as an economic powerhouse due to its business-friendly policies. “I’ve spent 12 years fighting every day for jobs all across the state of Texas,” he said, emphasizing low taxes and minimal regulations as essential to the state’s success. “Two-thirds of all new jobs come from small businesses, and if small businesses are doing well, you’ve got lots of jobs.”

He criticized his opponent, Colin Allred, for supporting high-tax, high-regulation policies akin to those in states like California and New York. “Colin Allred voted with Nancy Pelosi 100% of the time,” Cruz asserted, implying that his opponent would back measures harmful to Texas’ economic standing.

Fact check: While Allred aligns with Democratic policies, he has supported bipartisan initiatives, including the 2021 infrastructure package aimed at job creation nationwide. Experts also note that while Texas’s low-tax environment attracts businesses, it poses challenges like infrastructure strain and public service funding.

Freedom and Second Amendment rights

As a staunch advocate for gun rights, Cruz criticized Allred’s stance on firearms. “Colin Allred said, ‘I wish the Second Amendment had never been written,’” Cruz claimed, underscoring his own commitment to defending gun ownership. He warned that Allred’s policies would weaken constitutional rights.

Fact check: Allred has not advocated for abolishing the Second Amendment but supports measures like universal background checks and closing loopholes to improve gun safety. Cruz’s portrayal oversimplifies Allred’s position, which emphasizes responsible gun ownership.

Cruz also touched on social issues, particularly transgender rights in sports. “Our daughters have rights. They should not be forced to compete against boys,” he said, framing the issue as one of fairness in women’s sports. While contentious, Democrats argue that policies should protect transgender individuals’ rights without discrimination.

Border security: ‘It is a full-on invasion’

Cruz devoted significant attention to border security, a central theme of his platform. “We have had 11.5 million illegal immigrants come into this country. It is a full-on invasion,” he declared, criticizing Allred for what he described as “open borders” policies. Cruz contrasted his record of working with former President Trump on border enforcement with his opponent’s approach.

Fact check: While illegal immigration has increased, calling it an “invasion” oversimplifies a complex issue. Under Trump, policies like “Remain in Mexico” led to a reduction in crossings, but recent surges are influenced by economic and humanitarian factors. Allred supports comprehensive reform, which includes stronger border controls alongside pathways to legal status — a more moderate stance than the “open borders” label suggests.

Cruz made a comical quip about voting practices: “I want everyone here to come out and vote for me ten times. Now, hold on, we’re not Democrats. I am not urging fraud.” Though the comment drew laughs, it raised eyebrows given the sensitive nature of election integrity. Critics argue that such jokes undermine trust in the electoral process, especially in a state where voting security remains a contentious issue.

Call to action: Vote, volunteer, and donate

Cruz concluded the rally with a call to action, urging supporters to vote, volunteer, and donate to his campaign. “Chuck Schumer and George Soros are spending over $100 million trying to flip this state,” he warned. “But I got a message for them: You can’t have it.”

Fact check: While Democrats are indeed mobilizing significant funds, Cruz also has substantial backing from conservative PACs and donors. Framing the election as a David-versus-Goliath battle may oversimplify the financial dynamics at play.

Fairly, who spoke before Cruz, highlighted the broader implications of the election. “This is more than just a Senate seat. It’s about the future of Texas,” she said, reinforcing the need for Republican leadership. The rally ended with chants of “Keep Texas Red,” as Cruz posed for photos with supporters and continued to push for high voter turnout.