Change: The 2016 Election Game. (Gameplay Thread)

[TPIG]

Ted Cruz Campaign Schedule: September 1st - 19th

September 1st - Speech to Evangelical leaders in Des Moines, IA.


"It is a profound honor to be here with you all today. It is truly special to be with a group of people who understand the transformative power of the love of Jesus Christ. Your commitment to spreading the word of his love is something our society should cherish.

It was Thomas Jefferson who said that 'The God who gave us life gave us liberty'. Our Founding Fathers understood that in order to maintain a free society, faith had to be central in the lives of the American people.  When people are able to maintain a level of morality and high-character, through faith, a big-government dictating people's life decisions is not necessary. When we turn our backs on God, we turn our lives over to the jungle of moral relativism and societal decay.

As President, I will always stand up and defend the religious liberty of decent people like you and millions of others like you around the country. You are not trying to force your beliefs on others; you simply want to live your lives according to the word of God. I will appoint judges and sign legislation that ensures you are able to ALWAYS do so.

Thank you for your support, and may God bless you and our great country!"

September 2nd - Hold a meet and greet with voters in Dubuque, IA.


"It's truly a privilege to be able to speak face to face with the people of Iowa on the issues that affect them. The people of Iowa  deserve real, honest solutions to real, challenging issues. Some may not like my stance on every issue, such as ethanol, but they can always know that I will tell them the truth and will always fight for their right to achieve the American dream."

September 3rd - 5th - Debate prep with staff for upcoming debate

September 6th - Rally in Hudson, New Hampshire


"A lot of critics ask me why I, a die-hard conservative, would even bother coming to New Hampshire and campaigning. Supposedly, the people of New Hampshire are too moderate for a guy like me. Well, let me those critics something: you, the people of New Hampshire, are smart. You've seen our country go down the path of economic decline and cultural crisis for the last eight years. You know that America can and MUST do better. The people of New Hampshire need bold, conservative solutions just as much as any other people around the country. Don't listen to the naysayers. We can do this! We can unite voters in all states, from California to Maine and everywhere in between,  with our message of economic liberty and cultural revival. Thank you all so much!"

September 7th - Meet with NH political figures in Concord.


"Today, Senator Ted Cruz met with NH State Rep. Bill O'Brien and former US Senator Bob Smith. They explored the city of concord and chatted with voters."

September 8th - Continue Barnstorming in Concord, NH.

September 9th - Travel to Washington DC and hold rally against Iran Deal.


"This disastrous nuclear deal with Iran is not only misguided, it is also dangerous. It places 150 billion dollars worth of faith in the leaders of Iran to actually halt their nuclear program. However, they have shown time and time again, with great ambition, that their goal is to acquire nuclear weapons and use them to reshape the world to fit with their twisted, radical ideology. To believe otherwise is to ignore reality and lead the world into even greater instability.

As President, I will rip up this deal on day one and show the leadership of Iran, that no deal can be made that puts the security of the free world at risk."

September 10th - Debate prep with staff

September 11th - travel to ground zero in New York and pay respects to the innocent Americans murdered in the name of radical Islamic terrorism.

September 12th - Return to Iowa, meet with voters in Ames.

September 13th - Hold townhall in Davenport, IA.

September 14th - Speak to gun owners in Cedar Rapids, IA.


"The 2nd Amendment speaks to a fundamental aspect of what it means to be an American.  As Patrick Henry asked, 'Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery?' We all know the answer to that. Firearms are the great equalizer, and the right to bear arms assures that the American people can NEVER be subjugated to the whims of a despotic government. I will roll back every Obama-era attempt to strip lawful citizens of their God-given right to self-defense. I ask for your support. Thank you!"

September 15th - Meet and greet with voters in Cedar Rapids.


"I continue to be amazed by the warmth and hospitality that the people of Iowa have shown me. America is great because the people of America are good."

September 16th - 19th - Meet with agricultural leaders across Iowa


"You are the people who keep our society going. I am 100% committed to fighting for the farmers of Iowa and of this country. Our farmers have been some of the hardest hit by the Obama economy. If I am elected president, I will make sure to help create an economic environment where you are able to succeed. I will get government regulation off your back and ensure you can do your job properly! God bless you all!"

[TPIG]

Cruz Response Ad to Rick Santorum in Iowa

Narrator: For the last 8 years, America has had to endure a President who ignores the Constitution and takes power away from the states and the people and transfers it to Washington. Now, we have a Republican running for office wanting to do the same...


Narrator: Rick Santorum, just like Barack Obama, trusts the Federal government to handle the issue of marriage.



Narrator: Ted Cruz trusts YOU! The Constitution gives no power to Washington to handle the issue of marriage, so it must be handled by the states and the American people.



Narrator: Tell Rick, we don't need another big-government politician telling society what marriage should be. Vote for Ted Cruz, the true conservative!

"I'm Ted Cruz and I approve this message"

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Cruz Responds to Mattis Criticism

"I have the utmost respect for General Mattis. He is a hero who has served our country honorably and with great valor, but I have to respectfully disagree with his recent comments about me.

Over the past two decades, the Republican Party has continuously nominated moderate candidates like Bob Dole, John McCain, and Mitt Romney. These are good, decent men, but they have failed, time and time again, to energize the conservative base and take back the White House.

What our party needs is not another moderate, but instead an unapologetic conservative who will take the Republican case to the American people. I am the candidate to do just that. Thank you."

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Cruz Receives Endorsements From Major Iowa Political Figures

From the Associated Press: "Earlier today, Senator and presidential candidate Ted Cruz received the endorsements of Iowa Governor Terry Branstad and senior Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley. Both men praised Cruz as a 'true conservative' who was 'dedicated to the cause of turning America back towards economic revival and Constitutional principles'. This is especially remarkable given Cruz's opposition to ethanol subsidies, a major issue that many Iowans support. At this point, much of Iowa's political establishment is in the Cruz camp."

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Cruz Holds Rally in South Carolina - Addresses Critics

"Hello my good friends of Charleston, South Carolina! God bless each of you for coming out tonight. Thank you for standing with me on this journey to re-ignite the American dream!

I heard that the other day, Governor Chris Christie came to your wonderful city and instead of talking about a plan for creating jobs, rebuilding our military, or strengthening the moral fiber of America, he talked about me!

He attacked my record as being one of an insider. In reality, I've spent my adult life fighting for the Constitution and American liberty, as the Solicitor General of Texas and now as a Senator from that state. Often in those cases, I wasn't the most popular guy with my colleagues because I NEVER went in with the intention of going along to get along. I've been a disruptor, fighting for real change!

In response, I will not attack Governor Christie's record or get down in the partisan mud. Instead, I will remind him that the people of Charleston and of this country deserve better than petty political attacks and grandstanding from people running for President. They deserve to hear our plans! I've been consistent in sticking to the issues that affect America, and I wish others would do the same.

I hope you all continue to walk with me on this journey to take back the White House! I will be a President that fights for jobs, family, and freedom!

Thank you, and may God bless the great state of South Carolina!"

[TPIG]

Cruz Participates in First Republican Debate

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"Hello everyone, I'm Ted Cruz; thank you for tuning-in this evening. Something is wrong in America. Under eight years of Barack Obama, the economy isn't working for our people the way it should, power is increasingly being concentrated in Washington DC, and America's image abroad has been tarnished.

I'm running for President because I believe with all my heart and soul that the systems and values that made this country great to begin with - free enterprise, family, and faith - are the only sure way to see a resurgent economy and a proud country again. I have a consistent record of fighting for these values, and I eagerly seek your support. Thank you!"

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"I believe that Marijuana is a question that should be left to the states. The 10th Amendment leaves powers regarding the welfare, health, and morality of the people up to the states and the people. That said, I personally would vote against marijuana legalization. Legalization of marijuana should be fiercely fought against, at the state-level, all over this country. It's a drug that corrupts the minds of the youth and takes away the energetic spirit that makes America great, but again, the campaign against marijuana must be waged by concerned-citizens, not an over-bearing Federal Government."

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"As President, I will do everything in my power to defeat this cancerous group, plaguing our world. First, I will do something this President has never done - call this evil by its name. We aren't simply fighting political extremists or insane radicals - we are fighting radical Islamic terrorism. It's essential to properly identify your enemy before you can fight him.

Next, on day one as President, I will end the micromanagement of the military we have seen under Barack Obama and loosen the rules of engagement, allowing our forces to fully engage the enemy when we encounter them. We can't defeat ISIS with one hand tied behind our back.

On the home front, I will implement harsh and thorough vetting of all immigrants and refugees coming from the Middle East into our country to ensure we never have another ISIS-led attack on our soil."

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"I'd ask any of my opponents to look at history. There's a reason kids don't read about a President Dole or a President McCain or a President Romney in their civics classes. When Republicans nominate wishy-washy moderates, WE LOSE! When Republicans actually stick to their guns and run on bold, fearless conservative ideas, WE WIN! Look at 1980 and 84 with Ronald Reagan and the Midterms of 1994 and 2010 with historic Republican landslides. Our ideas win; we just have to have a presidential candidate brave enough to stick to them. I am that candidate."

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"America, this is a critical election. We can continue on the path of decline and defeat or we can choose to embrace a new American optimism that says liberty, free enterprise, and the Constitution are the best ways to solve America's current problems. As President, I will always fight for you and make sure you have your shot at the American dream! Thank you, and God bless you!"

[TPIG]

Cruz Campaign Schedule: September 20th - October 4th

September 20th - Speech in Nashua, New Hampshire on the National Debt


"Hello fellow courageous conservatives! I'm here today in Nashua to talk about an issue that not only affects every single one of us but will also greatly affect the lives of our children and grandchildren - the national debt.

During the economic hardships of the last eight years, Americans in New Hampshire and all across this country have had to tighten their budgets, make tough financial choices, and live within their means. When money is tight, you can't go on wild spending sprees and live like there's no tomorrow. Unfortunately, this is something the Federal Government seems to completely forget. Despite the fact that our country is nearly $20 trillion in debt, politicians in Washington want to grow and grow federal spending and then claim that the deficits we see are because you, the hard-working people of America, are not taxed enough. That is fundamentally wrong, and it's bankrupting the future of our children.

As President, I will ensure that we have a government that lives within its means and stops robbing from the future. I will submit a budget proposal to congress that cuts wasteful spending, eliminates unnecessary departments and agencies, and ensures that we have a balanced budget. As the debt grows, the prospects for a bright and sound future shrink. I will reverse this trend and make sure that the country our kids and grand-kids inherit is every bit as great, even greater, than the one we inherited. Thank you so much and God bless the United States of America!"

September 21st - Continue Barnstorming in Nashua, NH.

September 22nd - Participate in 1st Republican Debate

September 23rd - Travel to Charleston, SC and Meet Voters


"South Carolina has been one of the states hardest-hit by the failed Obama-economy. It was an honor to be on the ground with everyday Americans in Charleston and hear their concerns. They've seen their wages go down, their confidence wane, and their government fail them. The people of South Carolina know that we need a strong, conservative fighter to shake up Washington and unleash the potential of the American economy and the American people. I will be that fighter."

September 24th - Hold Rally in Myrtle Beach, SC.


"Look, I've got to tell you all, the enthusiasm our campaign is seeing here in South Carolina is truly incredible. Our message of limited government, liberty, and common-sense American values is resonating in profound way. I ask for your continued prayers and support throughout this campaign. God bless you all!"

September 25th - Travel to New York, Guest Star on Stephen Colbert


From CBS News: "Presidential Candidate Ted Cruz appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert last night. The two sparred on matters such as the federal role in marriage, the success of tax cuts, and the legacy of Ronald Reagan. Despite this, the debate never got out of hand and Cruz handled himself well, seeming presidential as he calmly and wittily answered Colbert's questions."

September 26th - Leave NY for Exeter, NH - Hold Town Hall


From the Associated Press: "Earlier today, Senator Ted Cruz held a town hall meeting with voters in Exeter, New Hampshire. He answered a large volume of questions ranging from topics such as taxes, the national debt, and the Iran Deal. After leaving the town hall, one attendee remarked "I was never a big Cruz guy, but today, after hearing him give solid answers to tough questions, I am seriously considering giving him my vote."

September 27th - Return to Iowa, Attend Church Services at Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids

September 28th - Speak to supporters in Sioux Center, IA

"I want to let you all in on a little secret- this primary season, I believe the person Iowa chooses to be our nominee will be the next President of The United States... let's just hope it's me."
*Crowd laughs*

September 29th - Rest day, Visit Ice Cream Parlor in Sioux Center, IA with Daughters


September 30th, 2015 - Hold Meet and Greet in Diner - Dubuque, IA


"I want to thank you all for coming out this afternoon. Hopefully you're here for more than just the great food. *chuckles*

Our country is headed down the path towards European Socialism, where the government takes more and more of what you earn and treats you less as a sovereign citizen and more as a subject. We need to embrace the values that made America great and resist the siren song of big-government. I have spent my career leading that resistance. I ask for your support. Thank you!"

October 1st - 4th - Visit various Ted Cruz Campaign Offices Around Iowa


"I am so pleased to be able to join with you today. Without you, our message of liberty and American optimism would be lost in the wind. You all are the ones putting in the hard work to make sure our campaign succeeds. I am indebted to each and every one of you. Thank you so much for believing in me; I will NOT let you down! God bless you!"

[TPIG]

Cruz Campaign Ad - TRUSTED

Narrator: In a campaign where every candidate says they want to challenge Washington DC, one man already has...



 Throughout his career, Ted Cruz has consistently stood for the Constitution and against encroachments on American liberty from politicians in DC.



From defending Americans' right to bear arms in front of the Supreme Court...



to standing against President Obama's disastrous healthcare law,



Ted Cruz has never wavered in his commitment to our freedoms. He's bold, he's ready to lead, and he's TRUSTED. Vote Ted Cruz.


Running in: Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina, and Nevada


 

[TPIG]

Cruz Receives New Endorsements

From the Associated Press: "This week, Senator Ted Cruz has garnered the endorsements of two prominent Republicans in key primary states. In the last two days, both Congressman Trey Gowdy of South Carolina and Senator Kelly Ayotte of New Hampshire released statements endorsing Senator Cruz's Presidential campaign. This has significance in that it shows Cruz is able to earn support from Republicans across the ideological spectrum, with Gowdy being a Tea Party darling and Ayotte being more of an establishment figure."

Statement from Congressman Gowdy

"Only one candidate in the field has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to the conservative principles we need in order to return America to economic strength and governmental sanity; that candidate is Ted Cruz. Senator Cruz has been a steadfast warrior in this fight for the soul of America, and our party will be led to victory in November, 2016 with him at the top of the ticket."

Statement from Senator Ayotte

"New Hampshire deserves better than the pandering it has seen from other Presidential candidates. Senator Cruz, while I may not agree with him on every issue, has presented his case honestly to the people of New Hampshire and this country. He will be a leader with the integrity to do what's right for our country. He has earned my respect and my support."

[TPIG]

Cruz Campaign Schedule: October 5th - 18th

October 5th - Speech in Waterloo, Iowa on the Right to Life


"It's wonderful to be in the great State of Nevada, and who better to greet me than a room full of courageous conservative patriots? Nevada, being part of America's wild west tradition, embodies the independence and rugged determination that makes our country so great. Unlike our current President, I won't rule as a King with a magic pen and phone that can make law appear out of nowhere. I will respect the independent nature of our states restore the 10th amendment to its true self. I hope you will all give me the chance to lead and chart a course towards a brighter future. Thank you so much and God bless this great state!"

October 11th - Hold Meet and Greet in Reno, NV.


"I know that many of you in the room have already graced me with your support. For that I am grateful. To those in here who have not yet come to that decision, let's meet and talk about the issues that are important to you. I will respond to you truthfully and with the full conviction of my heart. I will show you that my brand of conservatism is not about anger or divisiveness, but instead freedom and a full-fledged American come back. I look forward to talking to you over the next several hours. Thank you!"

October 12th - 14th - Return to DC to Fulfill Senatorial Duties.


October 15th - Travel to Greenville, SC - Hold Joint Rally with Trey Gowdy.


From CNN: "Early this afternoon, Presidential candidate Ted Cruz and Congressman Trey Gowdy held a joint-rally in Greenville, South Carolina, part of Gowdy's 4th Congressional District. First, Congressman Gowdy talked-up Cruz's conservative credentials and explained why a vote for Cruz was a vote for 'reigniting the soul of America'. Cruz then spoke and repeatedly thanked Gowdy for his support and began to outline his plans for what he called a 'great American revival'. Over 2,500 people were in attendance at the rally."

October 16th - Hold Fundraiser with Prominent Conservatives in South Carolina


"I am a fighter. I believe in fighting, tooth and nail, against the radical liberal agenda proposed by the Democrats and the mushy, moderate agenda proposed by other Republicans in this race. I will fight for the ideas of economic freedom, religious liberty, and limited government with every fiber of my being. As you all, in this room, know, in order to see these ideas take hold, I'm going to need your financial support. I ask you to give to our campaign, so we can see our country return to the principles it needs and the greatness it deserves. Thank you!"

October 17th - 18th - Participate in Debate Prep for Upcoming Debate.


"After strenuous preparation, I feel fully ready to stand before the American people on the debate stage and make my case."

[TPIG]

Breaking News: Heidi Cruz Killed in Car Crash

From CNN: "Earlier today, Heidi Cruz, wife of Presidential candidate Ted Cruz, was killed in a tragic car wreck while traveling to meet her husband at a rally in Des Moines, Iowa. We will be hearing from Senator Cruz shortly about the future of his campaign."

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Ted Cruz Statement on the Death of his Wife & Future of His Campaign

"Today, my heart has been shattered. The love of my life - my beautiful, sweet, graceful Heidi was taken from this world in a deadly car accident. From the very beginning, Heidi believed in the values of this campaign - liberty, family, and faith. She was a warrior for her beliefs and a true person of character. Because of this tragic event, I have decided to suspend my campaign and tend to the needs of my daughters in this dark time. From this point on, Senator Rand Paul has my full endorsement in this campaign to re-ignite the American dream. God bless you all."