Ted Cruz faces backlash over abortion stance in Texas election

Ted Cruz has largely refrained from discussing abortion during his Senate re-election campaign in Texas, a significant shift for a politician known for his vocal stance on the issue. This silence comes amid a challenging political landscape, as his opponent, Colin Allred, has mounted a strong campaign, making the race unusually competitive in a state that has not elected a Democrat in statewide races for three decades. Recent polling indicates a tight race, with Cruz leading by only two points, highlighting the potential impact of abortion on voter sentiment. The backdrop of this election is the ongoing maternal health crisis in Texas, exacerbated by the state's strict abortion laws following the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Cruz, who previously celebrated the Supreme Court's decision, has faced backlash as personal stories of women affected by the abortion ban have emerged. His avoidance of questions regarding specific cases, such as that of Kate Cox, reflects a strategic retreat from a contentious issue that could alienate voters. Cruz's influence in shaping the judiciary has also come under scrutiny, as he played a significant role in appointing conservative judges to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, which has been pivotal in enacting restrictive abortion laws. His connections to these judges, particularly James Ho, have raised questions about his accountability in the current healthcare crisis. As the election approaches, Cruz's silence on abortion may be a calculated move to distance himself from the negative consequences of the laws he helped implement. This situation presents an opportunity for Allred to capitalize on Cruz's vulnerabilities and potentially make history in Texas politics.