An analyst on MSNBC recently described Ted Cruz as a force in the presidential race now that he has announced his candidacy in 2016. She said his charisma and forceful speeches are powerful and will sway minds. I don’t think powerfully presented arguments that tear apart the fabric of our democratic government are persuasive, at least not to informed listeners.





It was also suggested that Cruz’s goal is to use the process to position himself for selection as a vice presidential running mate to a moderate candidate – a repeat of the candidacy of John McCain, the level-headed one, and Sarah Palin, the idol of the extreme right. The Republican strategy for regaining the White House does not go so far as putting into place programs that will help revitalize the middle class and give the poor a leg up. They would rather disenfranchise the voters who might vote against them, and reel in the fanatics who rant about morality while ignoring the teachings of Jesus.

I don’t view Cruz as charismatic. Yes, he is brilliant if his academic credentials, Harvard degree, and government positions held are the benchmark. But only his Christian views appeal to right-wing ideologues. It is a bigoted and toxic faith that Cruz practices as it leaves no room for humanity. Cruz as president would roll back all gains made to strengthen the economy for all, not just the financial wizards and one percenters. Cutting programs that help those on hard times survive would be the first to go.

How could such an intelligent person be so intent on the destruction of our democratic system, particularly since has no plan to solve what comes after the destruction. My husband suspects it is part of a well-planned design. In other words, Cruz does not believe everything he says but has a goal in mind (that goal is still a mystery).

My view of Cruz is that he hasn’t even figured out what he wants, except to destroy what already exists. His speeches stress undoing our democratic process.

I think his particular intelligence, almost genius level to hear some describe him, borders on insanity. There appears to be an emotional disconnect with his rhetoric and his supposed wish to improve life in America because nothing he advocates is wholesome. He destroys, he does not build. He may be the Righnt’s ideal, but he is not a national figure any more than Rick Santorum was. (You know, the candidate who said we should ban contraception because using it would mean that sex would be “only for pleasure”.)