Texas Senate race 2018: Beto O’Rourke loses to Ted Cruz

Ted Cruz versus Beto O’Rourke may have been the most closely watched Senate race of 2018, but in the end breakout star Beto O’Rourke lost his bid to unseat Cruz and turn solidly red Texas purple.

Yet this race was still shockingly close for a state that’s been comfortably handed to Republicans for the past 30-odd years. Despite O’Rourke’s loss, his campaign could have ripple effects throughout the state. He has energized liberal voters statewide and nationally, and could still lead a blue wave in Texas.