The Border region is critical to the safety and security of our Nation, and thus, requires strong leadership in the region. The District also includes a large metropolitan area including San Antonio and the surrounding area.
This seat was held by Republican Will Hurd, who announced he would not be seeking reelection, sparking off a race within the Republican Primary.
One of those Republican Candidates was retired Lt. Colonel Raul Reyes Jr., who was home after retirement, and ready to continue serving, to address the problems in his district. In my first interview with him, he mentioned that after over 20 years of service in the US Air Force, when he came home, nothing changed.
Low economic opportunities, depressed regions along the border, where Reyes grew up, had not improved in decades.
Reyes, along with multiple candidates were surprised with late entry, Tony Gonzales, another Republican who had been planning to run against entrenched Democrat Lloyd Doggett in a different District. But rather than take on the hardened Doggett, he decided to try his hand in Texas' 23rd Congressional District, where he would receive the endorsement from the departing Will Hurd.
While some may think this was a good thing, many conservative Republicans were not happy to hear of such a close relationship with Hurd, whose voting record was not in line with Republicans and in fact was more in line with Democrats.
After the Primaries, two emerged for the Runoff Election, Raul Reyes Jr., and Tony Gonzales.
Gonzales had been groomed in Washington, serving while Active Duty Navy, in Washington, with the Marco Rubio team. He has experience playing in the political arena, and his political connections are extensive, surrounded by consultants.
On the other hand, you have a political novice, with passion for this country, vision for his district, commitment, and a growing group of volunteers who believe in him. It is like the biblical story of David and Goliath. Raul, the beginner, no political experience VS the Washington Political machine.
Gonzales received big endorsements from former Texas Governor, Rick Perry, current Land Commissioner, Sid Miller, and the NRA. Meanwhile, Reyes was hitting the road, meeting people in each county, multiple times. He was answering questions, building a following. Trying to debate Gonzales, but unable to secure a date.
Still, Reyes continued to gain support from Conservatives and groups across his district. Ted Nugent, the famous Rock Star, and Political Activist endorsed Raul Reyes in this race, yet the negative ads were taking a toll. That was until Ted Cruz stepped in.
Texas Senator, Ted Cruz ends the debate by Endorsing Raul and his Campaign for TX23. Texas Republican voters know Cruz wouldn't cast his support blindly. They also know he would only put his name on the line for someone who deserves it.
I am reminded of countless Psalms in the bible that are about asking God for protection from those who lay traps. That they are caught in their own snares.
Thank You, Senator Cruz!
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