Senator Ted Cruz’s refusal to clarify his stance on abortion is striking, showcasing a level of obstinacy that raises eyebrows. As the ultra-conservative representative from Texas seeks to secure his position in Congress during this election cycle, he is facing a more formidable challenge than anticipated.
Despite still being considered a long shot, Cruz’s Democratic challenger, Colin Allred, is gaining traction. The latest analysis from the Cook Political Report has shifted its outlook for the Texas Senate race from “Likely Republican” to “Leaning Republican.” While not a drastic change, this update reflects a decline in Cruz’s support among Texas voters compared to previous years.
In a debate held on October 15, Cruz’s performance was lackluster. With Allred displaying a calm and assured demeanor, Cruz appeared agitated and defensive throughout the exchange, struggling particularly when abortion was the topic at hand.
During the debate, the moderator raised Texas’s stringent abortion ban, which notably lacks exceptions for rape or incest. When asked directly about his views on including such exceptions, Cruz skillfully evaded the question with evasive rhetoric that could impress any dodgeball player.
Upon first being questioned about his standpoint on abortion, Cruz stated that it was an issue best left for voters to decide at the ballot box, quickly reverting to criticism of Allred’s voting history. His entire argument was largely centered around Allred’s opinions regarding parental consent for minors seeking abortions and the fictitious concept of “late-term” abortions.
Allred countered with poignant examples where Texas women have faced obstacles due to the state’s severe abortion laws, asserting, “I trust Texas women to make their own health care decisions.”
After failing to address the abortion question, the moderator pressed Cruz again on whether he supports exceptions for rape and incest. Cruz began with a seemingly hopeful “I wanna be very clear,” but instead of providing clarity, he pivoted back to disparaging Allred’s record.
Credit is due to the moderator for persisting on the issue, confronting Cruz for the third time with, “Why is this an issue you won’t address?” Evidently frustrated and out of alternatives to redirect, Cruz snapped, “Why do you keep asking me that?” He lamented that he had previously questioned Allred about his voting history without receiving a response.
Cruz’s approach is perplexing, as he seems unaware of the fundamental dynamics of political debates. Key to debates is the process where moderators pose questions for candidates to answer, allowing voters to gauge their perspectives on critical matters. While Cruz often states that abortion-related questions should be settled by voters on election day, his reluctance to share his own views raises doubts. How can Texas voters make informed decisions if Cruz keeps his opinions hidden?
It is clear that Cruz understands the potential backlash from even staunch anti-abortion advocates regarding a ban without exceptions for rape or incest. His ongoing evasion hints at a belief that no exceptions should exist. Recognizing he may not align with majority sentiments, it is likely he will continue to sidestep this contentious issue.
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