Sen. Ted Cruz makes big push to keep Texas a conservative state

AUSTIN – Could Texas be a battleground state in this year's presidential election? The changing demographics of the state and disdain for Donald Trump indicate that is the case.

It's been wishful thinking for decades for Democrats winning the state of Texas, but it could actually be a possibility in this election. In the latest poll, Trump leads Clinton with 41 percent to her 38 percent, very close. Many think of Texas as a loyally red state, but it couldn't be further from the truth.

“Texas, like a lot of other states in the south, used to be solidly democratic at all levels. On the presidential level Texas started to become more red in the 1970s and 80s 90s; then it became the full on red state we have now," said Brian Smith, professor of political science at St. Edward’s University.

Despite some pushback of Trump, Republicans are trying to keep it red. Earlier this week, Texas Senator Ted Cruz made a stop in San Marcos.

“I think it is incumbent on all of us to earn the votes of Texans and I am working very hard to turn out conservatives this November," said Cruz.

If you can recall, during the primaries, Trump and Cruz had some choice words for each other. He has since endorsed Trump and is hoping Republicans turn out.

"I'm trying to do everything I can across Texas and across the country to encourage conservatives to come out and vote. The stakes in our country are too high otherwise," said Cruz.

"He needs Texas to stay red because his political future depends on a Republican Texas, he's got an election coming up as well," said Smith.

For more Texas stories visit fox7news.com. 

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