Ted Cruz Becomes First 2016 Presidential Candidate with Campaign Launch at Liberty University

Carrie Dedrick | Updated: Mar 23, 2015

Ted Cruz Becomes First 2016 Presidential Candidate with Campaign Launch at Liberty University

Texas Senator Ted Cruz became the first person to announce a 2016 presidential run in a speech at Liberty University today (March 23). The New York Times reports that Cruz’s speech at the Christian university strongly referenced his faith. 

“God’s blessing has been on America from the very beginning of this nation, and I believe God isn’t done with America yet,” Cruz said. “I believe in you. I believe in the power of millions of courageous conservatives rising up to re-ignite the promise of America.

“Today, I am announcing that I am running for president of the United States. It is a time for truth, it is a time for liberty, it is a time to reclaim the Constitution of the United States.”

Prior to the speech, Cruz posted a campaign video to Twitter. He said in the video, "It's going to take a new generation of courageous Conservatives to help make America great again, and I'm ready to stand with you to lead the fight."

The Christian Post calls Cruz “a team party favorite” and says he draws support from evangelical Christians. The son of a Cuban immigrant, Cruz promises that he is dedicated to religious freedom. 

“The power of the American people when we rise up and stand for liberty knows no bounds,” he told Liberty University students. 

Publication date: March 23, 2015



Ted Cruz Becomes First 2016 Presidential Candidate with Campaign Launch at Liberty University