Cruz endorses Crenshaw primary challenger
The Hill
by Tara SuterFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) has made a notable move by endorsing Steve Toth, a primary challenger to Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas), in Texas’s 2nd Congressional District. This endorsement is significant because it marks a rare instance of a sitting Republican senator backing a candidate against another Republican incumbent. Cruz expressed his support for Toth on the social platform X, stating that he is “proud” to endorse him and highlighting Toth’s dedication to serving the people of Texas. The decision reflects Cruz’s influence within the party and his strategic approach to shaping the political landscape in Texas.
The 2nd Congressional District has been a hotbed of political activity, with Crenshaw, a veteran and former congressional candidate, now facing a challenge from Toth, who is known for his conservative stances and grassroots activism. Cruz’s endorsement of Toth signals a shift in alliances within the Republican Party, particularly in Texas, where party unity is often seen as crucial to maintaining influence. This move could have far-reaching implications for both the primary race and the broader political climate in the state.
Cruz’s decision to endorse Toth appears to be part of a larger strategy to align with candidates who share his ideological views and political priorities. By backing Toth, Cruz is likely aiming to strengthen conservative principles within the district and send a message about the importance of loyalty to core Republican values. This endorsement could also be seen as an effort to counter any perceived moderate tendencies in Crenshaw’s approach, further polarizing the race.
The implications of this endorsement extend beyond the 2nd Congressional
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/25/2026