Senator Ted Cruz on Tuesday endorsed state Representative Steve Toth in the Republican primary challenging incumbent Representative Dan Crenshaw in Texas’s 2nd Congressional District, escalating a battle within the state’s GOP. Cruz’s backing of Toth, announced via a post on X, signals a significant challenge to Crenshaw, a four-term congressman.
“Steve faithfully served the people of Texas in the Texas House of Representatives, championing our Texas values of liberty, limited government and constitutional governance,” Cruz wrote. He further lauded Toth as “an unwavering fighter for school choice, fiscal responsibility, and the next generation of Americans,” and asserted the demand for “bold leadership” in Washington.
The endorsement comes as Crenshaw faces a primary challenge from Toth, who has been critical of the incumbent’s voting record, particularly regarding aid to Ukraine and immigration policy. Toth has accused Crenshaw of being too moderate, a charge Crenshaw has vehemently denied. According to the Houston Chronicle, Crenshaw responded to the attacks by stating, “If you think I’m not MAGA enough, then you’re not following me on social media… I’m out there defending [Trump’s] policies pretty hard.”
Crenshaw’s allies have countered Toth’s campaign by labeling him a “RINO” – Republican In Name Only – for opposing aspects of Governor Greg Abbott’s property tax plan, arguing that Toth’s objections stemmed from a belief the plan did not go far enough. This internal conflict within the Texas Republican party is unfolding as Donald Trump prepares to visit the state ahead of the primary elections, adding another layer of complexity to the race.
Notably, Crenshaw is the only Republican incumbent seeking reelection in Texas, North Carolina, or Arkansas – states holding primaries next week – who has not received an endorsement from Trump. This lack of Trump’s support has become a focal point for Toth and his supporters, who are attempting to position Crenshaw as out of step with the party’s base. The primary is scheduled to accept place next week, with the outcome potentially reshaping the Republican delegation from Texas in Congress.
