Republican U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz and Democratic U.S. Rep. Colin Allred are set to face off in a debate tonight at 7 p.m. CT, marking the only debate between the two candidates competing to represent Texas in Congress for the next six years. This debate comes just ahead of the early voting period for the November election, offering undecided voters a final look at where the candidates stand and how they align themselves with the leadership of their respective parties.
Recent polls have shown Cruz holding a slight lead over Allred, with varying margins depending on the survey. For example, a Florida Atlantic University survey indicated a three-point lead for Cruz, while a Marist poll released shortly after showed Cruz up by five points. However, a poll from late September had Allred leading by one percentage point.
Cruz, who is seeking his third term as the state’s junior senator from Texas, has been in office since 2012, when he rode a Tea Party wave into Washington. His current single-digit lead mirrors his narrow victory over El Paso Democrat Beto O’Rourke in 2018.
On the other hand, Allred was first elected to the U.S. House to represent Texas’ 32nd Congressional District in 2018. He has a background as a former Baylor football standout and NFL player. Both Cruz and Allred are attorneys, with Cruz having served as the former Texas Solicitor General and Allred working as a civil rights attorney and in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
During the campaign, Allred has focused on running a more centrist mission, targeting what he perceives as Cruz’s weaknesses or extremism, rather than aligning himself with progressive policies. He has even gone against some of his far-left colleagues on certain issues. Allred has also outpaced Cruz in fundraising, bringing in over $30 million compared to Cruz’s $21 million in the most recent fundraising cycle.
On the other hand, Cruz and his team have adopted tactics commonly used by national Republicans, highlighting perceived support for wedge issues among Democrats. Cruz’s social media presence often features criticisms of Allred on various topics. In contrast, Allred has criticized Cruz for his stance on issues such as abortion and social security.
The debate, taking place just days before early voting begins in Texas, will be moderated by veteran reporters from WFAA and The Dallas Morning News. The rules of the debate include time limits for responses and follow-up questions from moderators.
Both candidates have raised significant amounts of money for their campaigns, making this race one of the most expensive in the country. The debate will be broadcast on TEGNA Texas stations and digital platforms, as well as Marfa Public Radio.
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