Ted Cruz throws down the gauntlet, challenges GOP 2016 field: 'Don't talk, show me'
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}DES MOINES, IA - JANUARY 24: U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) speaks to guests at the Iowa Freedom Summit on January 24, 2015 in Des Moines, Iowa. The summit is hosting a group of potential 2016 Republican presidential candidates to discuss core conservative principles ahead of the January 2016 Iowa Caucuses. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) (2015 Getty Images)
Texas' junior senator is challenging early caucus state voters to back only presidential candidates with a proven conservative track record.
Sen. Ted Cruz tells conservatives gathered at the Iowa Freedom Summit that the standard should be, "Don't talk, show me."
The Republican was among several would-be presidential candidates appearing Saturday at the forum. Cruz received thunderous applause with calls to repeal fully President Barack Obama's health care law, lock down of the southern border, handcuff environmental regulators and abolish the IRS.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Cruz used his remarks to gather details on activists by having them text message the word 'Constitution' to a number he gave out.
Cruz isn't the only Texan giving thought to a run. So is former Gov. Rick Perry.