Rafael Edward Cruz: American Politician, Attorney, and Political Commentator

Biography and Early Life

Rafael Edward "Ted" Cruz (born December 22, 1970) is an American politician, attorney, and political commentator who has served as the junior United States Senator from Texas since 2013. A member of the Republican Party, Cruz was the Republican nominee for Vice President of the United States in the 2016 election.

Cruz was born in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, to Cuban immigrants. He attended Princeton University and Harvard Law School, and worked as a law clerk for Chief Justice William Rehnquist of the Supreme Court of the United States. After working in private practice and as a professor, Cruz entered politics in 2004 when he was elected to the Texas House of Representatives. He was elected to the Senate in 2012, defeating incumbent Democrat Kay Bailey Hutchison.

Political Career

Cruz is a conservative Republican and fiscal hawk. He has advocated for lower taxes, less government regulation, and a strong national defense. He is a vocal opponent of the Affordable Care Act and has supported efforts to repeal the law.

Cruz is also a strong advocate for religious liberty and has spoken out against efforts to discriminate against religious groups. He has supported legislation to protect religious freedom, such as the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

Personal Life

Cruz is married to Heidi Cruz, a former Goldman Sachs investment banker. They have two daughters. Cruz is a devout Christian and attends the First Baptist Church in Houston, Texas.